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March 31, 2007

Custom Robo Arena

Score: 3.5 out of 5
Publisher: Nintendo
Platform: Nintendo DS
ESRB: E 10+

i_11444.jpg

Custom Robo Arena is very much like Custom Robo for GameCube. It's a familiar concept that battles are waged between robots and not between people. The twist is that you play as a kid who does all of the battling, not as some kind of futuristic soldier. And the battles take place in a ring, or arena, not on the battlefield. The robots are small and called "robos" instead of being some sort of huge mech kind of thing. Overall, the game has a charming interface and graphics, and the combat is limited to taking place in a ring. I think the combination of those factors makes this a very good game for children who are interested in robots. Also, geekier adults, such as I, will enjoy the extensive robo customization features.

I had actually written a much longer review, but for some reason it simply disappeared. My guess is that I hit "publish" but didn't hit "save". Gotta love duplicating my efforts.

You play as a kid who is starting a new school and wants to join the robo team. In this, you walk around the town and talk to people. Unfortunately, this part reminded me of Pokemon for GBA, which is my way of saying that it isn't really up to DS standards. Although, to be fair, when you talk to someone the artwork is pretty good. It's just that the exploring the town part is very basic.

i_11445.jpg

The real action comes in the robo arena. Before the battles you can tweak your robot by modifiying different parts such as guns, pods, body frame, bombs, and legs. You can make your robot heavily armored and slow, or give it one really good gun, a light body, and then hop around and shoot. The ability to customize your robot so heavily is a major strongpoint of the game. There's strategy involved in building and configuring your robo and then there's tactics involved in the actual fighting. Fighting is pretty fast and frenetic, and best of all no one gets hurt so this seems like a pretty good game for kids. I also like the way that the fighting is confined to a ring, which sends the message that fighting is only ok under controlled circumstances.

Multiplayer pits two players against one another in a holosseum chosen by the players. They can play over local wireless or Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and, if only one player has a game card, using DS Download Play. Players can speak to one another during a match using the DS microphone. Players also can trade dioramas with one another and show off poses they've created for their robos. The combination of customizing your robot and then fighting other players online means that this game has virtually unlimited replayability.

i_11446.jpg

The only thing I didn't really like was the whole polishing your robo thing. As your robo fights it gets dirty, especially when you lose. If it gets too dirty it won't work right, so you have to take a polishing cloth and clean it. You use the stylus to polish your robo, like brushing your dog (my beloved Teddy) in Nintendogs. To me, this felt tacked on just to give the game an excuse to use the stylus.

I really like Custom Robo Arena. The music, which is usually aggressive electric guitar, is very good at building the mood. I have had some fun with it. The funny thing is that I keep thinking about the Simpsons episode with Chief KnockaHomer.

March 30, 2007

SEGA ANNOUNCES MEDIEVAL II: TOTAL WART KINGDOMS FOR THE PC


*/New Expansion for the Critically Acclaimed /*Medieval II:
Total War™/ Delves Deeper Into the New World and Beyond/

*SAN FRANCISCO** AND LONDON *(March 30, 2007) – SEGA® of America, Inc.
and SEGA® Europe Ltd., today announced /Medieval II: Total War™
Kingdoms/ for the PC. /Kingdoms/ takes the award-winning formula of
/Medieval II/ and expands on it, with even richer variety and deeper
historical gameplay. The inclusion of The New World campaigns has opened
up an entirely new region for players to conquer, while expanding the
game to over 75 hours of gameplay. /Medieval II: Total War™ Kingdoms/ is
slated for release in North America in August 2007.

/Medieval II: Total War™ Kingdoms/ will feature four brand new
campaigns, including an opportunity to more fully explore the New World
that was unlocked toward the end of /Medieval II/. Three additional
campaigns will focus deeper on Great Britain, Northern Europe and the
Holy Land, with many more regions than were originally shown. Featuring
13 new playable factions and over 150 new units, /Kingdoms/ will allow
players to control multiple armies on a single battlefield and lead them
into conflict with new hero characters such as Richard The Lionheart and
Saladin, each armed with new, powerful battlefield abilities. In the new
campaigns, players will use moated forts to garrison vast armies or
seize control of key strategic points and explore new technology trees,
governed by religion and prestige.

“/Medieval II: Total War/ has been a great success for SEGA and The
Creative Assembly, and critically acclaimed by consumers and journalists
alike,” said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing SEGA® of
America, Inc. “At the end of /Medieval II/ we teased gamers with a taste
of the Americas, but with /Kingdoms/ we are finally opening up the
entire New World for players to both control and conquer.”

In the Americas campaign players will be able to retrace the steps of
Hernán Cortés in 1519 as he seeks to explore and conquer The New World.
Players can earn the support of Spain and explore the mystery and riches
of the New World, or take control of the Aztec or Native American
factions and call on the Gods and the bravery of vast armies to fight
off this new threat.

Players will experience a bloody clash between pagans and Christians in
the Northern European Teutonic Wars, or take control of one of five
factions in the Britannia campaign when England faces war on four fronts
as once conquered lands rise up against them. /Kingdoms /will also
include a new expanded Crusades campaign where players renew their fight
for control of the Holy Lands, with new factions, devastating new units
(such as the terrifying Greek Flame Thrower), legendary heroes and
powerful holy relics.

/Kingdoms /will also include six new multiplayer scenarios, and 20 new
Custom Battle battle maps. Each of the campaigns is also fully
compatible with a brand new Hotseat multiplayer mode, making this an
essential addition to any /Total War/ fans’ collection.

/ /

/Medieval II: Total War™ Kingdoms/ will be released for PC in fall 2007.
For more information please go to www.totalwar.com
or www.sega.com/kingdoms
. For assets please visit the SEGA Press
Website at http://segapr.segaamerica.com/ .

*_About SEGA® of America _*

SEGA of America, Inc. is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA
Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside
and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes
interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware
platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by
Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA of
America’s Web Site is located at _www.sega.com_.

* *

*_About SEGA® Europe:_*

SEGA Europe Ltd. is the European Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based
SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment
both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and
distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of
hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those
manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment
Europe. SEGA Europe’s Web Site is located at www.sega-europe.com
.

* *

All trade marks and trade names are the properties of their respective
owners**

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"Halo 2" Fans Prepare for Battle as Exclusive New Maps Expand the Most Popular Title on Xbox LIVE

Two of the most popular multiplayer maps from the original "Halo: Combat
> Evolved" will arrive as premium downloadable content for "Halo 2" in
> April.
>
> REDMOND, Wash. - March 30, 2007 - Microsoft Game Studios and Bungie
> Studios today confirmed the upcoming release of two new, eagerly awaited
> downloadable maps for "Halo(r) 2." The maps will be available as premium
> downloadable content for Xbox(r) and Xbox 360(tm) on April 17.
>
> Fans of the original "Halo" have long requested the addition of some of
> their favorite maps to the critically acclaimed multiplayer experience
> of "Halo 2." These re-creations, developed by Bungie and Certain
> Affinity Inc., are a perfect way to thank fans for their support as they
> surpass 800 million hours of "Halo 2" gaming on Xbox LIVE(r).
>
> The two maps will bring new life to ancient battlefields and legendary
> skirmishes, as both are new, improved and redesigned remakes of fan
> favorites from the original "Halo: Combat Evolved." For the price of $4
> for the pair, these maps bring a fresh burst of action to the seminal
> "Halo 2" online multiplayer experience. Both of the maps will be
> available through the "Halo 2" in-game content downloader for both Xbox
> and Xbox 360.*
>
> The king of "Halo" maps has returned at last. Hang 'Em High, arguably
> the most popular multiplayer map for the original title, has been
> reimagined for "Halo 2" as Tombstone, with all-new graphics, features
> and a few hidden surprises. Now fans will enjoy the dangerous catwalks
> and trenches that made this the most requested "Halo" multiplayer map
> ever, with a modernized "Halo 2" flavor.
>
> The second map, Desolation, is a symmetrical, Deathmatch-oriented map
> and a beautiful remake of the original Derelict. With new graphics and
> effects and a massive gameplay overhaul, the old favorite is now
> faster-paced and more balanced than ever - perfect for intense "Halo 2"
> combat.
>
> "Halo 2" is the sequel to the highly successful and critically acclaimed
> "Halo: Combat Evolved" and represents the second chapter in the epic
> "Halo" trilogy. Since its launch in fall 2004, "Halo 2" has maintained
> its place as the most popular Xbox LIVE title ever. To date, gamers have
> logged more than 800 million hours of "Halo" multiplayer action on Xbox
> LIVE, and they are eagerly awaiting "Halo 3," slated for release this
> fall. The "Halo" franchise is among the biggest worldwide entertainment
> properties in history and continues to change the way people think about
> interactive entertainment.
>
> About Bungie Studios
>
> Bungie Studios was founded in 1991 with two goals: to develop games that
> combine brilliant technology, beautiful art, intelligent stories and
> deep gameplay, and then sell enough of those games to achieve its real
> goal of total world domination. Over the past 10 years it has produced
> games such as the "Marathon Trilogy" and the first two "Myth" games,
> hailed as classics by critics and gamers around the world. Bungie's
> "Halo" franchise is an international award-winning action title that has
> grown into a global entertainment phenomenon, selling more than 14.7
> million units worldwide, logging over 800 million hours of multiplayer
> action on Xbox LIVE, and spawning action figures, books, a graphic
> novel, apparel and more. Bungie is currently at work on "Halo 3," which
> represents the third chapter in this "Halo" trilogy and is slated for
> release in 2007. More information on Bungie can be found at
> http://www.bungie.net.
>
> About Certain Affinity
>
> Certain Affinity, Inc. was founded in 2006 by Max Hoberman, an industry
> veteran and former "Halo 2" and "Halo 3" multiplayer team lead. The
> Austin, Texas based company specializes in creating top-tier games and
> content in an efficient, no-nonsense manner. For more information about
> Certain Affinity, visit http://www.certainaffinity.com, or email
> info@certainaffinity.com.
>
> About Microsoft Game Studios
>
> Microsoft Game Studios is a leading worldwide publisher and developer of
> games for the Xbox and Xbox 360 video game systems, the Microsoft(r)
> Windows(r) operating system and online platforms. Comprising a network
> of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is committed to creating
> innovative and diverse games for Windows
> (http://www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as "Age of
> Empires(r)," "Flight Simulator" and "Zoo Tycoon(r)"; Xbox and Xbox 360
> (http://www.xbox.com), including such games as "Gears of War" and
> franchises such as "Halo," "Fable(r)," "Project Gotham Racing(r)" and
> "Forza Motorsport(r)"; and MSN(r) Games (http://www.games.msn.com), the
> official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as
> "Bejeweled" and "Hexic(r)."
>

March 29, 2007

New Screens And Character Info Released for Sword of the New World

K2 NETWORK REVEALS NEW SCREENS AND DETAILS FROM
>
> SWORD OF THE NEW WORLD'S MUSKETEER CHARACTER CLASS
>
>
>
>
>
> K2 Network today revealed new screen shots and exciting new details on the
> unique stances of the Musketeer Class that players will be able to take
> control of in its upcoming massively multi-player online role-playing
> adventure, Sword of the New World. Just one of five unique and interesting
> character classes in the game, the Musketeer is one of the most imposing and
> dangerous classes in the game. Scheduled for release this summer, Sword of
> the New World is the only MMORPG to allow players to simultaneously control
> three distinct characters with its multi-character control (MCC).
>
>
>
>
>
> The Musketeer
>
> The Musketeer is one of the most imposing character classes in Sword of the
> New World. This character class is a top-tier damage dealer, and primarily
> relies on pistols and rifles; however, this class can also use bare fists,
> smash enemies with rifle stocks, fire poisonous bullets, slash and stab with
> a bayonet, and even fire a blinding AOE debuff. With 7 stances and 24
> skills, the Musketeer is as deadly as it is diverse. The following details
> the depth and characteristics of three of its unique stances:
>
>
>
> Double Gun Shot - A duel-pistol stance with the fastest shooting speed and
> the lowest accuracy.
>
> * Westraid: Greatly increases shooting speed for both guns, but
> decreases accuracy.
> * Blood Over-Drive: Reckless AOE attack blasts up to 8 random enemies.
>
> * Quattro Firing: Quickly shoots one opponent four times.
> * R.I.P.: Overwhelming attack fires dozens of shots at one enemy.
>
>
>
> Standing Shot - Excellent rifle stance. It grants superior accuracy and
> quickness.
>
> * Birdfall: Fires at enemies in the air. Cannot be used to attack
> enemies on the ground.
> * Blind Flash: Tremendous AOE debuff. Blinds up to 15 opponents by
> firing ammunition that explodes with a bright flash of light.
> * Headshot: Shoots an opponent in the head. Highly accurate.
> Devastating damage.
> * Undercovering: AOE skill fires many shots at up to 6 enemies. Chance
> to inflict Fear.
> * Precision Shot: Fires a high-damage shot that never misses.
>
>
>
> Encounter Shot - A close-up shooting stance utilizing the bayonet.
>
> * Bayonet Assault: Stabs an opponent and then smashes him/her with a
> rifle butt.
> * Glint: Hits the enemy in the head with the gunstock, and finishes
> with several rifle shots.
> * Incision: Cuts an enemy twice with the bayonet, and then fires
> multiple times.
> * Shooting Star: Converges on the enemy while firing a shot, kicks the
> enemy down, and then stabs with the bayonet. Wicked and brutal, and so fun.
>
>
>
>
>
> For additional information please visit the official web site at
> www.swordofthenewworld.com and stay
> tuned for information on more of the exciting character classes in Sword of
> the New World soon!

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Konami Announces Voice Cast for Metal Gear Solid 4

DAVID HAYTER TO VOICE SOLID SNAKE IN METAL GEAR SOLID 4: GUNS OF THE
> PATRIOTS
>
>
> Iconic Actor Leads Returning Cast of Voice Talent for Highly Anticipated
> PLAYSTATION3 System Debut of the Legendary Metal Gear Solid Series
>
>
> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
>
> REDWOOD CITY, Calif. March 29, 2007 Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
> today announced that iconic actor David Hayter will lead an all-star cast of
> returning voice talent in the highly anticipated Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of
> the Patriots for the PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system. Continuing
> his commitment to the series and character he helped to define, Hayter will
> provide the voice for an aging and exhausted Solid Snake in the latest
> chapter of Hideo Kojimas legendary tactical espionage action video game
> series.
>
> Returning to voice Solid Snake in an original script by Hideo Kojima and
> Shuyo Murata, David Hayter will be joined by returning voice actors Quinton
> Flynn, Paul Eiding and Christopher Randolph who will continue their work as
> the voices of Raiden, Roy Campbell and Hal Otacon Emmerich, respectively.
> In addition to his well known voice work in the Metal Gear Solid series,
> Hayter is an accomplished Hollywood script writer, having penned the
> original screenplays for box office hits such as X-Men, X2: X-Men
> United, and the upcoming Black Monday. Kris Zimmerman will also return to
> the Metal Gear Solid series to direct the voice acting sessions for the
> game.
>
> I couldn't be more excited about this game. What I've seen of Metal Gear
> Solid 4 has absolutely blown me away. To bring the focus of the story back
> to Solid Snake, and to work with Kris Zimmerman and many of the amazing
> actors that provided iconic voices for the previous games, is like coming
> home, said David Hayter. I'm so proud and grateful to have been involved
> with Mr. Kojima as the voice of Snake, for nearly a decade, on this
> legendary video game series. This game is going to plunge players into the
> ultimate Metal Gear experience. And personally, I can't wait to play it.
>
> David Hayter will be a special guest on The Kojima Productions Report
> podcast on March 29 to discuss his involvement with the Metal Gear Solid
> series and his approach to portraying a very different Solid Snake in Metal
> Gear Solid 4. The podcast is available for download at the official Kojima
> Productions web site (http://www.konami.jp/kojima_pro/english/) and via the
> iTunes music store. For more information on the Metal Gear Solid series,
> please visit www.konami.com .
>
> To download a photo of David Hayter, please visit:
> http://www.konami.com/edealinv/servlet/ExecMacro?nurl=control/Downloads.vm&c
> tl_nbr=3810 .
>
> About Konami
> Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic
> entertainment properties. Konamis titles include the popular franchises
> Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill, Dance Dance Revolution 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,
> Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United
> States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami
> Corporation is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange
> under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami can
> be found at www.konami.com .
>
> (C) 1987 2006 Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.
>
> "METAL GEAR SOLID is a registered trademark of Konami Digital Entertainment
> Co., Ltd.
>
> GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS is a trademark of Konami Digital Entertainment Co.,
> Ltd.
>
> "KONAMI" is a registered trademark of KONAMI CORPORATION.
>
> "PlayStation", "PLAYSTATION", and "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks
> of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

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Penny Arcade Expo Early-Bird Registration Ends March 31, 2007

Seattle, Wash. – March 29, 2007 – Penny Arcade, creators of the popular online comic strip of the same name, today gave the final call for this year’s Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) early-bird registration. Early-bird registration for the August 24-26 game-culture celebration at the Washington State Trade and Covention Center in downtown Seattle, Wash., will end Saturday, March 31.

Early-bird registrants pay just $40 for a three-day pass. Those who register between April 1 and Aug. 1 will pay $45 for a three-day pass, and passes purchased at the door will be $30 per day. Online registration is available at www.pennyarcadeexpo.com.

PAX tickets are selling more than twice as fast as they did last year. PAX 2006 drew 20,000 gamers, prompting a move to the cavernous Washington State Trade and Convention Center in Seattle. The change in venue more than doubles the size of the PAX show floor, giving attendees more than 200,000 square feet packed with soon-to-be-released games, tournaments, concerts, contests and more.

PAX is unique in that it gives equal love to all games, whether they’re played on a television, computer monitor or tabletop. Highlights include a huge new exhibit floor, incredible nerdcore concerts and the amazing Omegathon three-day tournament. Only pre-registered attendees are eligible to become Omeganauts.

Musical guests at PAX 2007 include The OneUps, MC Frontalot, Jonathan Coulton, Freezepop, The Neskimos and Optimus Rhyme. Microsoft, Sony, Ubisoft, Electronic Arts/Mythic, Sabertooth Games, Telltale Games, the Behemoth, Namco-Bandai, Upper Deck, Wizkids, ArenaNet, Harmonix, and Rockstar top the list of over 50 companies exhibiting at PAX 2007.

About Penny Arcade Expo
Started by videogame-oriented comic-strip creators Gabe and Tycho in 2004, Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) is a three-day, round-the-clock celebration of games and game culture. It includes an exhibition floor filled with playable demos of upcoming games, a conference program of game-industry speakers on gaming topics, music concerts, game tournaments and more. For more information visit www.pennyarcadeexpo.com.

About Penny Arcade
Equal parts online comic and commentary, Penny Arcade (www.penny-arcade.com) covers videogames in a way that is genuine, insightful and respected by the gaming community. What started as a hobby for Jerry “Tycho” Holkins and Mike “Gabe” Krahulik has, over five years, grown into an online phenomenon that serves 45 million page views a month to millions of readers worldwide. In addition to the comic strip and PAX, Penny Arcade Inc. also manages Child’s Play (www.childsplaycharity.org), a gamer-driven charity for sick kids in children’s hospitals around the world.

DIRT - FIRST GAMEPLAY TRAILER NOW AVAILABLE FROM XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE!

DIRT - FIRST GAMEPLAY TRAILER NOW AVAILABLE FROM XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE!
>
> Get some DiRT� down your Live pipe today as Codemasters launches the first
> DiRT gameplay video, now available exclusively from Xbox Live� Marketplace.
>
> Featuring classic Rally, Rally Cross, Crossover, Rally Raid and C.O.R.R
> buggy and truck action across stunning environments, this footage reveals
> the game in all its dirty glory.
>
> Coming this June for the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment system from
> Microsoft and the PC, with a PlayStation�3 computer entertainment system
> edition following shortly after, get the first DiRT gameplay video now from
> Xbox Live Marketplace.
>
> # # #
>
> About Codemasters
> Codemasters is a leading developer and publisher of best-selling interactive
> entertainment products for a global audience on current and future gaming
> platforms and channels. Established in 1986, the company�s dominant brands
> include Colin McRae Rally, TOCA Race Driver, LMA Manager, Brian Lara Cricket
> and Operation Flashpoint. The company is headquartered in Southam,
> Warwickshire UK and maintains operations in the U.S, Germany, France, Spain,
> and Benelux. More information about the company and its products is
> available online at: http://www.codemasters.com.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE PARTNERS WITH NINTENDO TO FEATURE Wii ON BOARD ITS FLEET

Now guests can bowl, box and more on every ship MIAMI - March 29, 2007 -
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today announced it is the first cruise line to
offer guests a chance to experience Nintendo'sred-hot Wii(TM) video game system
on board its ships. Since its launch in November 2006, the Wii system from
Nintendo has become one of the most popular game systems. With an easy-to-use
motion-sensitive controller, Wii draws new players into the world of video
games in a very 'real' way.
Wii systems are currently on NCL's newest ship -- Norwegian Pearl -- and all
NCL America ships. Wii will be rolled out on the rest of the NCL fleet by next
month. The systems are equipped with Wii Sports(TM), offering five distinct
sports experiences: tennis, golf, baseball, boxing and bowling. Other games
available on the ships include Wii Play(TM), WarioWare(TM): Smooth Moves and
Excite Truck(TM). "With its active, engaging and inviting game experiences
appealing to every age from kids to parents to grandparents, the Wii from
Nintendo is a natural fit for Freestyle Cruising," said Colin Veitch, NCL's
president and CEO. "With the addition of Wii to our on-board activities, we
can now offer bowling, boxing, golf, tennis and baseball across the entire
fleet. Cheering, yelling and high-fives will be highly encouraged."
"Millions of people around the world continue to discover the fun of playing
Wii with their friends and families," says George Harrison, Nintendo of
America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications.
"Norwegian Cruise Line is a great partner, as they offer us direct access to
non-traditional gamers. Our partnership reinforces how Wii's social phenomenon
continues to grow, from the centerpiece of gaming parties, to a workout
supplement, to a fun facet of vacation cruises." On each ship, Wii
systems/setups will be located in the atrium and other public rooms allowing
guests to gather and play against each other while viewing the game on large
video screens. Each ship's Kid's Crew facility will also feature two Wii
kiosks providing kids-only fun. The ships will also host tournaments and other
activities around the games. "This partnership with Nintendo is an industry
first and another innovation for NCL," Veitch said. "This continues our
mission to dismantle the traditional cruise experience and deliver the most
exciting and most customizable experience at sea."

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The Best Way to Sell a Video Game

*/ /*

*/3100+ meetings take place at Game Connection in San Francisco/*

*/ /*

* *

*Lyon, France March 29, 2007 * Connection Events, a leading video
game business event producer, announced today the results of Game
Connection @ GDC 2007 and Game Connection Services. These two events
brought in record numbers of both buyers and sellers spurring on the
growth of the video game market. This GDC was the first time ever that
service providers were able to market their wares at the same successful
business event as developers and publishers to increase their sales.
Both events were held at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco
in March, 2007.

The huge number of exhibitors doubled the previous events attendance
from just last March. However, the larger number of companies did not
harm Game Connections ROI to either developers or publishers as
evidenced by these attendees: GC is an excellent way to bring buyers
and sellers together for face to face meetings in one convenient place,
said Mike Cucchiarella a Senior Producer at ValuSoft. DC Studios CEO,
Mark Greenshields said It is the must attend show -- period! "Game
Connection has allowed us the ability to introduce our studio to the
major publishers without the distractions from the main expo and
conference, said Alex Cruz , President of Maxum Games.

Game Connection @ GDC for developers and publishers brings together some
of the industries largest names at one time to meet and make deals.
This year the event brought in 102 exhibitors selling titles or
technology, and over 500 attendees looking to buy. 90% of the top
twenty publishers were represented, and just over 3100 meetings took
place in two days. The event was truly international with
representatives from 37 countries in attendance, up from 25 last year.
Meanwhile, Game Connection Services saw 43 exhibitors meet with over 180
potential buyers.

Game Connection brought developers and publishers together for over
3100 meetings this year and saw hundreds of deals get made, said Pierre
Carde, General Director of Connection Events. "While our goal is to make
it easy for companies to find the right customer and buyers to save
time, we also see this as a new and important way to grow the video game
industry as a whole.

The immense success of Game Connection at GDC 2007 further strengthens
the global reach of Connection Events. The next event scheduled will be
in Tokyo in September and should coincide with the Tokyo Game Show.
Game Connection continues after that in Europe on December 4-6, 2007 in
Lyon, France, an event equal in size to the one at GDC.

*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 and publishers, network building and enhancement, and
examination of projects and companies.

Game Connection enables business 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 meet many developers in
just one place.

Please Visit us on the web at www.game-connection.com

Safe Harbor for Forward Looking Statements: This press release contains
forward-looking statements about the Company's business prospects that
involve substantial risks and uncertainties. The Company assumes no
obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this
press release as a result of new information or future events or
developments. You can identify these statements by the fact that they
use words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project,"
"intend," "should," "plan," "goal," "believe," and other words and terms
of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future operating
or financial performance. Among the factors that could cause actual
results to differ materially are the following: the ability to maintain
or renew the Company's licenses; competitive developments affecting the
Company's current products; first party price reductions; the ability to
successfully market both new and existing products domestically and
internationally; difficulties or delays in manufacturing; or a downturn
in the market or industry.

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Electronic Arts Mobile Announces The Sims 2 Pets

*Furry Phones and Pocket Pups: /The/ /Sims 2 Pets/ Goes Mobile*

* *

/Adopt a puppy, teach it tricks, feed, clean, and walk it in this
original game for mobile phones./

**LOS ANGELES, Calif., March 29, 2007** Electronic Arts Inc.
(NASDAQ: ERTS) announced today that it has shipped /The Sims 2 Pets/
for mobile phones. Players young and old can now create adorable canine
companions and use their cell phones to love, train and play with them.
The arrival of /The Sims 2 Pets/ for mobile extends the reach of the
popular /The Sims/ franchise, which has sold more than 85 million units
to date.

/The Sims 2 Pets/ for mobile is an ideal product for the mobile
consumer, said Travis Boatman, vice president of worldwide studios for
EA Mobile. Simple controls and an easy, pick-up-and-play game design
will satisfy both the experienced /The Sims/ player just as much as the
casual gamer picking up a mobile game for the first time.

In /The Sims 2 Pets/, players will adopt a puppy, teach it tricks and
give it food and exercise and cleaning. A well-trained puppy will
delight your Sim with surprising and amusing antics, and a happier Sim
will benefit from increased earnings and improved status. A neglected
puppy can shred papers, devour houseplants, soil the carpet, and make
your Sims life miserable.

With /The Sims 2 Pets/, were delivering the awww factor players
experience when you see a puppy and capturing the strong ties that exist
between a pet and his owner, added Boatman.

/The Sims 2 Pets/ is currently available on most wireless carriers in
North America. For more information on carrier availability and pricing,
please visit www.eamobile.com

###

*About /The Sims/*

/The Sims/ franchise celebrated its fifth anniversary in February. The
game skyrocketed to the top of the charts when it began shipping to
stores in February 2000 and quickly become a universal gaming and
cultural phenomenon. /The Sims/ PC based product and expansion packs
were the best selling PC games of 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003. Translated
into 22 different languages, /The Sims/ has inspired seven top selling
expansion packs. They include: /The Sims Livin' Large/, /The Sims
House Party/, /The Sims Hot Date/, /The Sims Vacation/, /The Sims
Unleashed/, /The Sims Superstar/, and /The Sims Makin' Magic/. /The
Sims 2 /shipped in September 2004 with sales already topping 20M units
worldwide, it was the best selling PC game of 2004. /The Sims 2
University/ shipped in March 2005, /The Sims 2 Nightlife/ shipped in
September 2005, /The Sims 2 Open for Business /shipped in February
2006, /The Sims 2 Pets/ shipped in October 2006 and /The Sims 2
Seasons/ shipped in February 2007. Combined sales for the franchise are
approximately 85M units life-to-date. For more information on /The Sims
2/, visit http://www.thesims2.com and for
more information on The Sims franchise titles, visit
http://www.thesims.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, 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 _www.ea.com _.

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''Entertainment for All Expo'' (E for All) Announces Flagship

'Entertainment for All Expo'' (E for All) Announces Flagship

Exhibitor: Nintendo of America Anchors New Consumer Show in LA


FRAMINGHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 29, 2007--IDG World Expo
today announced that Nintendo of America has signed on as an anchor
exhibitor for IDG World Expo's newest event: Entertainment for All(TM)
Expo (E for All(TM)), scheduled for October 18-21, 2007, at the Los
Angeles Convention Center. Nintendo leads an A-list of game companies
signing on for a show that is rapidly shaping up to be the premiere
event in interactive entertainment.

Entertainment for All Expo (E for All) is a new event created for
people who are passionate about video games and everything related.
The Expo was launched in response to strong demand within the consumer
audience for an opportunity to see and try new products before they
reach store shelves. Event organizers anticipate its mid-October dates
will launch an early and successful holiday shopping season for the
industry.

"The E for All Expo supports Nintendo's mission to reach as many
types of consumers as possible to expand the world of video games to
new audiences," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior
vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Our Wii and
Nintendo DS systems are all about gaming for the masses, and the E for
All Expo will give consumers a chance to try out the hottest new
Nintendo video games."

"Nintendo's early involvement in E for All demonstrates the
importance of a broad consumer-focused event for this industry," says
Mary Dolaher, executive vice president of IDG World Expo. "E for All
has been shaped from the ground up with all gamers in mind, and
Nintendo has proven its commitment to embracing the spectrum of
gamers, as we've seen with their launch of the Wii. In addition to
being our flagship exhibitor, Nintendo of America Executive Vice
President of Operations Don James has agreed to serve on our Exhibitor
Advisory Board. I couldn't ask for a more universally respected
colleague in this new venture."

E for All Expo will offer consumers the opportunity to test-drive
the latest in games and gadgetry, as well as purchase products they
enjoyed over the course of the 4-day event at on-site retail
facilities. Additional attractions are in the works, including
high-profile videogame tournaments; job fair/networking opportunities;
and the acclaimed Video Games Live concert. In addition to the Expo at
the Los Angeles Convention Center, the event will take advantage of
soon-to-be-expanded LA Live/NOKIA Theatre area directly adjacent.

E for All Expo has been endorsed by the Entertainment Software
Association (ESA), the U.S. association exclusively dedicated to
serving the business and public affairs needs of companies that
publish video and computer games for video game consoles, personal
computers, and the Internet. ESA members collectively account for more
than 90 percent of the $7 billion in entertainment software sold in
the U.S. in 2005, and billions more in export sales of U.S.-made
entertainment software.

For more information about E for All Expo or to register for
updates about the event, please visit www.EforAllExpo.com. Companies
interested in learning more about exhibit opportunities, please
contact Richard Kazarian at (508) 424-4828, or email
richard_kazarian@idg.com.

About Nintendo of America

The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive
entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and
markets hardware and software for its Wii(TM), Nintendo DS(TM), Game
Boy(R) Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM) systems. Since 1983, Nintendo
has sold nearly 2.2 billion video games and more than 387 million
hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like
Mario(TM), Donkey Kong(R), Metroid(R), Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). A
wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond,
Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western
Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's
Web site at www.nintendo.com.

About IDG World Expo

IDG World Expo (www.idgworldexpo.com) produces tradeshows,
conferences and events for professionals seeking world-class
education, peer-to-peer networking and one-stop comparison shopping.
IDG World Expo's portfolio of conferences and events includes
Entertainment for All(TM) (E for All(TM)), Macworld Conference &
Expo(R), LinuxWorld Conference & Expo(R), LinuxWorld(R) OpenSolutions
Summit(TM), Next Generation Data Center(TM) (NGDC(TM)), and
SaaScon(TM). IDG World Expo is a business unit of IDG, the world's
leading technology media, research and event company.

About International Data Group (IDG)

International Data Group (IDG) is the world's leading technology
media, events, and research company. IDG publishes more than 300
magazines and newspapers in 85 countries including CIO, CSO,
Computerworld, GamePro, InfoWorld, Macworld, Network World, and PC
World. IDG's online network includes more than 450 Web sites spanning
business technology, consumer technology, digital entertainment and
gaming worldwide. IDG's lead generation service, IDG Connect, matches
technology companies with an audience of engaged, high-quality IT
professionals, influencers, and decision makers.

IDG is a leading producer of more than 750 technology-related
events including E for All(TM) Expo, LinuxWorld Conference & Expo,
Macworld Conference & Expo, DEMO, and IDC Directions. IDC, a
subsidiary of IDG, is the premier global provider of market
intelligence, advisory services, and events. Over 850 IDC analysts in
50 countries provide global, regional, and local expertise on
technology and industry opportunities and trends. Additional
information about IDG, a privately held company, is available at
http://www.idg.com.

Note: Product names and company names are trademarks of their
respective companies.






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March 28, 2007

=?windows-1252?Q?KING=92S_BOUNTY_IS_BACK?=

*/Classic Franchise Returns to PC/*

* *

*MOSCOW**, Russia**, March 28, 2007* Leading Eastern and Central
European publisher
1C Company announced today that the hotly anticipated game Battle Lord
(working title) has changed its name. Moving forward the projects
official title is /Kings Bounty: The Legend/. The change of names does
not mean any changes for release dates or the main conception behind the
project.

/Kings Bounty//: The Legend/ is an adventure with tactical turn-based
battles and RPG elements unfolding in a rich fantasy world. The
character and his army of companions travel across a huge continent,
visiting dozens of different locations all connected to each other.
While communicating with NPCs and fulfilling different tasks, the player
controls their character in real-time mode and all battles take place in
classic Kings Bounty mode with a strong emphasis on turn-based tactical
elements, says Ivan Magazinnikov, project lead designer.

Developed by faithful fans of the original Kings Bounty, /Kings
Bounty: The Legend/ continues the remarkable traditions of the legendary
role-playing adventure. This creation of Katauri Interactive is not just
a spiritual successor for the critically acclaimed series, but its true
rejuvenation.

Our aim was to create a game that would preserve the traditions of the
classic PC title, adds Nikolay Baryshnikov, International Sales
Director of 1C Company. Kings Bounty was a founder of a new and very
popular genre. There are still people that remember and love this game
throughout the world. Im sure that together with Katauri Interactive,
the creators of the successful Space Rangers series, we will able to
deliver a game worthy of its famous predecessor.

The current release date is scheduled for Q4 2007.

Additional information about the game is available here:
http://int.games.1c.ru/battlelord/

*About 1C Company*

1C Company specializes in distribution, publishing and development of
interactive entertainment products and business software. Founded in
1991, 1C has become the leading publisher and distributor of computer
games in Eastern and Central Europe.
1C Company is widely acknowledged as a game developer and has several
internal studios. In-house developments include IL-2 Sturmovik, IL-2
Sturmovik: Forgotten Battles, Aces Expansion Pack, Pacific Fighters and
Theatre of War. 1C Company works as a publisher and producer with over
30 independent development studios and has produced over 100 projects
for PC and consoles.

For more information about 1C Company, please visit:
http://int.games.1c.ru

*About Katauri Interactive*

Katauri Interactive, founded in 2004, consists out of former employees
of Elemental Games (founded in 1999). The first project developed by
Elemental Games was Space Rangers an adventure strategy title with
role playing elements. The second title created by Elemental Games was
the award-winning Space Rangers 2: Rise of the Dominators. Currently the
company is working on its new project Kings Bounty: The Legend.

For more information about Katauri Interactive, please visit:
http://www.katauri.com

Posted using Meow

MARIO & SONIC IN SAME GAME FOR FIRST TIME EVER

Legendary Icons Appear Together for the First Time in Video Game History
>
>
>
>
>
> TOKYO (March 28, 2007) - SEGA Corporation and Nintendo Co. Ltd. today made a
> historical announcement that two of the biggest icons in the entertainment
> industry, Mario(tm) and Sonic(tm), are joining forces to star in Mario &
> Sonic at the Olympic Games. Developed for the Wii(tm) video game system and
> the Nintendo DS(tm) system, this momentous agreement marks the first time
> these two renowned stars have appeared together in a game.
>
> Published by SEGA across Europe and North America, and published by Nintendo
> in the Japanese market, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games will be available
> for Holiday 2007 and is licensed through a worldwide partnership with
> International Sports Multimedia (ISM), the exclusive interactive
> entertainment software licensee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
>
> In Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, players will compete in events that
> take place in environments based on the official venues of the Beijing 2008
> Olympic Games. Using a supporting cast of characters from the amazing worlds
> of both Mario and Sonic, gamers will be able to compete as or against a range
> of lovable personalities including Mario, Sonic, Luigi(tm), Knuckles(tm),
> Yoshi, Tails(tm) and more. Innovative usage of the Wii and DS control
> systems to maneuver a favorite character will allow players to race the likes
> of Mario and Sonic down the 100m track, engage in exhilarating rallies in
> table tennis and churn water in a swimming heat, all while competing for the
> much sought after gold medal.
>
> "We are thrilled to partner with Nintendo and ISM on this groundbreaking
> title," said Hisao Oguchi, President and Chief Operating Officer, SEGA
> Corporation. "For the first time, two of the world's greatest games'
> characters come together to compete in the world's greatest sporting event
> and we couldn't be more excited."
>
> "Mario and Sonic have been respectful rivals since the early days of video
> games," says Shigeru Miyamoto, Senior Managing Director and General Manager,
> Entertainment Analysis and Development Division, Nintendo Co., Ltd.. "In
> fact, for a long time they have been discussing the possibility of one day
> competing against each other. Now that they have been given the perfect
> opportunity to meet at the Olympic Games, we may finally learn who is
> actually faster, Mario or Sonic?"
>
> "The Olympic Games represent the true spirit of competition and passion,"
> said Raymond Goldsmith, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ISM.
> "Bringing together intensely competitive and fun characters like Mario and
> Sonic in an Olympic setting helps showcase the sports of the Olympic Games in
> a new and compelling way for all generations."
>
> For further information on this title please visit www.sega-press.com
> for Europe and the SEGA FTP for America at:
> http://segapr.segaamerica.com .
>
>
>
>
>
> About SEGA Corporation:
>
>
>
> SEGA Corporation is a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both
> inside and outside the home, encompassing consumer business, amusement
> machine sales and amusement center operations. The company develops,
> publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a
> variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those
> manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
> SEGA Corporation's Web site is located at http://sega.jp .
>
>
>
> About Nintendo:
>
>
>
> The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment,
> Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and
> software for its Wii(tm), Nintendo DS(tm), Game Boy Advance and Nintendo
> GameCube(tm) systems. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.2 billion video
> games and more than 387 million hardware units globally, and has created
> industry icons like Mario(tm), Donkey Kong, Metroid, Zelda(tm) and
> Pokmon. A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in
> Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the
> Western Hemisphere. For more information about Nintendo, visit the company's
> Web site at www.nintendo.com.
>
>
>
> About ISM:
>
>
>
> ISM is active in managing and developing entertainment software applications.
> In addition to the exclusive rights ownership of the Olympic Games, ISM is
> one of the world's leading providers of sports fantasy games, particularly
> specializing in the football/soccer sector. Visit the company's website at
> www.ismltd.com
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> TM USOC 36USC220506
>
> SUPER MARIO characters 2007 NINTENDO
>
> Nintendo, Nintendo DS, Wii and the Official Seal are trademarks of Nintendo.
>
> SONIC THE HEDGEHOG characters SEGA. All Rights Reserved.
>
> Sega is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. SEGA, the SEGA
> logo and Sonic The Hedgehog are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
> SEGA Corporation.

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Microsoft Unveils Xbox 360 Elite

This is an aggressive price point, especially since it is absolutely clear that all Microsoft is doing is copying the PS3. They're even coloring it black! Hats off to you, Bill Gates. You've built the most successful copycat company in the world.

REDMOND, Wash. — March 27, 2007 — Microsoft Corp. today announced the upcoming availability of Xbox 360™ Elite, a new model of the video game and entertainment system that will include a 120GB hard drive, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port, a high-definition cable, and a premium black finish for the console, wireless controller and Xbox LIVE® headset. Xbox 360 Elite has enough space for a library of Xbox LIVE Arcade games and thousands of songs, as well as downloadable high-definition TV shows and movies available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. The new 120GB hard drive also will be sold as a stand-alone accessory to give current Xbox 360 owners greater choice and flexibility in their games and entertainment experience. Additional Xbox 360 Elite accessories, such as the black Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, Xbox 360 Play & Charge kit and the Xbox 360 rechargeable battery, will be available separately. The Xbox 360 Elite and its accessories are expected to begin arriving in U.S. stores on April 29.

“Today’s games and entertainment enthusiast has an insatiable appetite for digital high-definition content,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. “Xbox 360 Elite’s larger hard drive and premium accessories will allow our community to enjoy all that the next generation of entertainment has to offer.”

Distinguished by its black finish and signature metallic detailing, Xbox 360 Elite will have an estimated retail price1 of $479.99 (U.S.) and will come packed with components and accessories for the ultimate high-definition entertainment experience:2

* Xbox 360 Elite console. The console is equipped with a premium black finish and three powerful core processors capable of producing the best in HD entertainment (up to 1080p), 16:9 cinematic aspect ratio, anti-aliasing for smooth textures, full surround sound, HDMI output and DVD playback with upscaling capabilities right out of the box.
* Xbox 360 120GB hard drive. The 120GB detachable hard drive allows gamers to save their games and store television shows, movies, music, pictures, trailers, levels, demos and other content available from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.3 The hard drive is sold separately for an estimated retail price of $179.99 (U.S.).
* Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (black). This award-winning, high-performance wireless controller, now in black, features the Xbox® Guide Button for quick, in-game access to friends and music. It has a range of up to 30 feet and a battery life of 30 hours on two AA batteries. It is sold separately for an estimated retail price of $49.99 (U.S.).
* Xbox 360 headset (black). Now available in black, the headset lets gamers strategize or trade taunts while playing games and send voice messages to friends on Xbox LIVE.
* Xbox 360 HDMI cable. New to Xbox 360, HDMI allows consumers to get HD video (up to 1080p) and multichannel surround sound, all from one cable.
* Xbox LIVE Silver Membership. With this, gamers can chat with friends online, collect achievements and gamerscores, send and receive voice and text messages, and access Xbox LIVE Marketplace content such as game demos, HD movies and TV, as well as the best in downloadable games from Xbox LIVE Arcade.
* One-month subscription to Xbox LIVE Gold. An Xbox LIVE Gold Membership provides a complete online entertainment experience. Those who subscribe to this premium service can engage in competitive online multiplayer matches, tailor their matchmaking via feedback and accomplishments, chat with more than one person at a time, and take advantage of unique privileges in the Xbox LIVE Marketplace and Xbox LIVE Arcade.

The following accessories for the Xbox 360 Elite console will only be sold separately:

* Xbox 360 Play & Charge kit. Complete with a charging cable and a black rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox 360 Play & Charge kit allows gamers to recharge their Xbox 360 Wireless Controller without interrupting their gameplay. it is sold separately for an estimated retail price of $19.99 (U.S.).

* Xbox 360 rechargeable battery (black). The rechargeable battery pack provides more than 25 hours of gameplay per charge. It is sold separately for an estimated retail price of $11.99 (U.S.).

About Xbox 360

Xbox 360 is the most powerful video game and entertainment system, delivering the best games, the next generation of the premier Xbox LIVE online gaming network and unique digital entertainment experiences that revolve around gamers. Xbox 360 has a catalog of more than 160 high-definition games and is available in 37 countries. More information can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/xbox360.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

#########

1 Prices stated are estimated retail prices; actual retail prices may vary.

2 Total retail value: more than $600 (U.S.)

3 TV and movie downloads available only in the U.S.

Microsoft, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE and Xbox are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

March 27, 2007

MLB Predictions Using PlayStation 2 MLB 07 The Show

> You're most likely making projections for the 2007 MLB season. Sony
> PlayStation has done the same by running a complete 2007 MLB simulation using
> the best selling, longest running and most realistic baseball video game on
> the market, MLB 07 The Show. To see how we came up with the predictions,
> we've included a brief paragraph after the predictions.
>
> KEY STATS
> Barry Bonds will not break the homerun record in 2007; coming up two shy
> Milwaukee wins Central - 86 wins and 76 losses
> Padres win the West - 102 wins vs. 60 loses
> Phillies win the East - 88 wins and 74 losses
> Mets will take the Wild Card - 87 wins and 75 loses
> Angels win the West - 98 wins and 64 losses
> Indians win the Central - 85 wins and 77 losses
> Yankees win the East - 103 wins and 59 losses
> Red Sox take the wild card - 91 wins and 71 losses
>
> NATIONAL LEAGUE
> MVP - A.Soriano, Chicago Cubs: Ave .310; HR 45; RBI 132; H 185; R 113; SLG
> .636
> Silver Slugger and Hank Aaron Award: Lance Berkman, Houston Astros: Ave .328;
> HR 40; RBI 109; H 187; R 117; SLG .633
> Rookie of the Year: Scott Thorman, Atlanta Braves: Ave .258; HR 24; RBI 71; H
> 114, R 48; SLG .453
> CY Young; Roy Oswalt, Houston Astros: ERA 3.62; W 19; K 194; BB 57; WHIP
> 1.292
> Rolaids Relief; Jason Isringhausen, St. Louis Cardinals: ERA 2.68, W 0; K 51,
> BB 23; Saves 50; WHIP 1.252
>
>
> AMERICAN LEAGUE
> MVP - Justin Morneau, Minnesota Twins: Ave .322; HR 29; RBI 109; H 194; R
> 106; SLG .566
> Silver Slugger - Grady Sizemore, Cleveland Indians: Ave .349; HR 27; RBI 92;
> H 206; R 118; SLG .607
> Rookie of the Year - Delmon Young, Tampa Bay Devil Rays: Ave .303; HR 20; RBI
> 83; H 195; R 84; SLG .443
> Hank Aaron Award - Grady Sizemore, Cleveland Indians: Ave .349; HR 27; RBI
> 92; H 206; R 118; SLG .607
> CY Young - Chien-Ming Wang, New York Yankees: ERA 3.38; W 20; K 170; BB 73;
> WHIP 1.301
> Rolaids Relief - MarianoRivera, New York Yankees: ERA 1.93; W 4, K 54, BB 16;
> Saves 44; WHIP 1.212
>
>
> MLB 07 The Show
> MLB 07 The Show has more than 500 hours of analysis from the entire 2006 MLB
> season; every pitch, every at-bat, every action in every inning for every
> game. Using that type of statistical data, MLB 07 The Show was able to come
> up with these predications and continues to raise the bar on what fans call
> the BEST baseball simulation available.
>
> Last year, MLB 06 The Show continued its reign as market leader across all
> gaming platforms and dominated the Playstation platforms. We all evolve, and
> this year, like you, MLB 07 The Show's even better. Sony will keep producing
> authentic, immersive and technologically superior sports titles for the PS3,
> PS2 and PSP.

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Konami Ships Konami Classics Series: Arcade Hits

15 Timeless Arcade Classics Debut on Nintendo DS with Unique New
> Presentation, Extensive Multiplayer Support and Behind the Scenes Extras
>
>
> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
>
> REDWOOD CITY, Calif. March 27, 2007 Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.
> today announced it has shipped Konami Classics Series: Arcade Hits
> exclusively for the Nintendo DS to retail stores nationwide. Featuring 15
> of the most well known and influential arcade smash hits from the 1980s
> such as Contra, Gradius and Track & Field, the game lets players relive
> their greatest gaming memories with new dual screen presentation, support
> for wireless multiplayer action and a wealth of rare unlockable materials
> that provide an insiders view of these classic titles.
>
> Delivering 15 arcade classics to the Nintendo DS, Konami Classics Series:
> Arcade Hits lets players enjoy each game with a number of screen
> configurations including horizontal and vertical options. As they progress
> through each game, players can record and save replays of high scores and
> impressive feats which can then be shared with friends via local wireless
> connection on the Nintendo DS. A selection of games that featured
> multiplayer play in the arcades can be enjoyed wirelessly with a friend on
> the Nintendo DS, and players can also wirelessly send demo versions of all
> 15 games to other users within range.
>
> Konami Classics Series: Arcade Hits features a treasure trove of unlockable
> content that lets fans of these 15 classic games dig deeper into their
> favorite titles. A selection of music tracks are available from the outset
> and can be enjoyed with headphones even when the Nintendo DS system is
> closed. Players can also view vintage concept art, promotional materials,
> photos of original arcade cabinets and even the actual arcade boards
> themselves.
>
> Below is a full summary of all 15 titles included in Konami Classics Series:
> Arcade Hits:
>
> * Basketball: Shoot, rebound and pass with authority as you carry your team
> through several levels of intense basketball competition.
>
> * Circus Charlie: Take control of a clown named Charlie, making your way
> through a series of circus themed challenges such as jumping on trampolines,
> tightrope walking and swinging on the flying trapeze.
>
> * Contra: In this original arcade shooter smash hit, take on the role of a
> hard boiled Marine as you single-handedly eradicate a deadly alien threat.
>
> * Gradius: Customize the legendary Vic Viper space craft as you fly and
> blast through hundreds of space enemies in this timeless shooter.
>
> * Horror Maze: Explore the haunted tomb of a fallen king, collecting
> treasure while avoiding the gruesome creatures that pursue you.
>
> * Pooyan: Play as Mrs. Pig and use your bow and arrow to protect your
> piglets from a sneaky pack of balloon-riding wolves.
>
> * RainbowBell: In this vertical shooter, take on enemies and avoid dangerous
> obstacles as you collect bells and battle huge bosses.
>
> * Road Fighter: Put the pedal to the metal in this fast-paced driving game,
> blowing past the competition for extra points while collecting valuable
> fuel.
>
> * RocN Rope: Play as an archaeologist and use your harpoon gun to swing
> across cliffs in search of legendary treasures, avoiding dangerous cavemen
> and dinosaurs along the way.
>
> * RushN Attack: Take on the role of a tough-as-nails special forces agent,
> rescuing prisoners of war and going head to head with endless waves of
> gun-toting enemies.
>
> * Scramble: Infiltrate the dreaded Scramble system in your advanced space
> fighter, blasting lasers and dropping bombs to destroy the base in this side
> scrolling shooter.
>
> * Shao-lins Road: Unleash your lethal martial arts mastery on waves of
> hapless enemies in this platforming action game.
>
> * Time Pilot: Zip back and forth through time in your futuristic fighter
> craft, saving your comrades while taking on enemies from different moments
> in history.
>
> * Track and Field: Stake your claim for the gold medal, taking part in
> exciting competitions such as the 100 meter dash, long jump and javelin
> throw in this classic game of athletic prowess.
>
> * Yie-Ar Kung Fu: Deflect throwing stars, dodge swords and deliver ruthless
> high kicks while facing off one-on-one against a host of martial arts
> masters in merciless kung-fu matches.
>
> Konami Classics Series: Arcade Hits has a suggested retail price of $29.99
> and is rated E10+ by the ESRB. For more information on the game, please
> visit www.konami.com .
>
> About Konami
> Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic
> entertainment properties. Konamis titles include the popular franchises
> Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill, Dance Dance Revolution 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,
> Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United
> States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami
> Corporation is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange
> under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami can
> be found at www.konami.com.
>
> KONAMI is a registered trademark of Konami Corporation.
>
> Konami Classics Series: Arcade Hits is a trademark of Konami Digital
> Entertainment Co., Ltd.
>
> Nintendo DS is a trademark of Nintendo.

Posted using Meow

Lord of the Rings Online: Over 1,000,000 Invited Into Virtual

*Over 1,000,000 Players To Be Invited To Free World Tour of
Middle-earth For _The Lord of the Rings Online_ *

*^ *

/One of the Largest North American MMO Pre-Launch Events Ever Scheduled
to Begin On April 6^th !/

/ /

*WESTWOOD, MA and CHICAGO, IL March 27, 2007 -- *Turbine, Inc. and
Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY) announced a massive, free World Tour of
Middle-earth available to players throughout North America. Over one
million players are planned to be invited into *The Lord of the Rings
Online: Shadows of Angmar*, the most complete and authentic massively
multiplayer online (MMO) world based upon the famous Books of J.R.R.
Tolkien. The World Tour of Middle-earth is scheduled to begin on April
6^th and continue until the anticipated launch of the game on April 24^th .

We decided to launch the World Tour of Middle-earth because of the
overwhelming demand from players to get into the closed beta, said
Jeffrey Anderson, President and CEO of Turbine, Inc. We expect the
World Tour of Middle-earth to be a spectacular event like nothing that
youve ever seen before.

Free access to this hotly anticipated game combined with the staggering
size and scale of the World Tour of Middle-earth make this an
unprecedented event in the MMO industry. Players can pre-order the game
at select retail stores nationwide or at www.lotro.com/preorder
and start their adventures in
Middle-earth beginning on March 30^th .

Advancement in the game will be capped at level 15 which will give
players a great opportunity to experience the most authentic online
persistent recreation of Middle-earth ever created. Players should visit
www.lotro.com/worldtour to get more
information on how to obtain a World Tour key.

*The Lord of the Rings Online* is the first and only massively
multiplayer online role-playing game based upon the Books of J.R.R.
Tolkien. The game recreates the vast world of Middle-earth with
incredible dedication to the lore with an unprecedented level of detail.
The game delivers an experience that takes players beyond the Books to
where they can create their own story within the most famous fantasy
world of all time. For more information, please visit www.lotro.com
.

*_About Turbine_*

Turbine, Inc. is a premier developer, publisher and operator of online
subscription entertainment and is headquartered in Westwood,
Massachusetts. The company is one of the largest privately-held online
games companies in North America. Turbines catalogue includes some of
the most famous online entertainment brands, including Asherons Call,
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS ONLINE: Stormreach, and The Lord of the Rings
Online: Shadows of Angmar. For more information on Turbine and its
services, please visit www.turbine.com .*__*

*_About Midway_*

Midway Games Inc. (NYSE:MWY), headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with
offices throughout the world, is a leading developer and publisher of
interactive entertainment software for major videogame systems and
personal computers. More information about Midway and its products can
be found at www.midway.com .

*_ _*

*_About Tolkien Enterprises_*

The Saul Zaentz Company d/b/a Tolkien Enterprises is the holder of
worldwide motion picture, legitimate stage, merchandising, and other
rights in J.R.R. Tolkiens literary works /The Lord of the Rings/ and
/The Hobbit/. Tolkien Enterprises has been producing and licensing
films, stage productions and merchandise based on Tolkiens works for
almost 30 years. Its headquarters are in Berkeley, California, and its
website may be found at www.tolkien-ent.com .

# # #

The Lord of the Rings Online, Shadows of Angmar, Middle-earth,
The Lord of the Rings, and the names of the characters, events, items
and places therein are trademarks or registered trademarks of The Saul
Zaentz Company d/b/a Tolkien Enterprises under license to Turbine, Inc.
Turbine and the Turbine logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Turbine, Inc. in the United States and/or other jurisdictions. All other
trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Midway has
provided the www.lotro.com , www.turbine.com
and www.tolkien-ent.com
links solely as a convenience for you. The
information on these sites has been prepared by third parties, and
Midway does not monitor, endorse or accept responsibility for the
content on non-Midway sites.

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
concerning future business conditions and the outlook for Midway Games
Inc. (the "Company") based on currently available information that
involves risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results could
differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking
statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, including,
without limitation, the financial strength of the interactive
entertainment industry, dependence on new product introductions and the
ability to maintain the scheduling of such introductions, the current
console platform transition and other technological changes, dependence
on major platform manufacturers and other risks more fully described
under "Item 1. Business - Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and in any more
recent filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. Each forward-looking statement, including, without
limitation, financial guidance, speaks only as of the date on which it
is made, and Midway undertakes no obligation to update any
forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the
date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or
unanticipated events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Posted using Meow

Hudson and Konami Ship Honeycomb Beat

Energize Your Mind with Addictive Brain-Teasing Action in this New Puzzle
> Game for Nintendo DS
>
>
> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
>
> REDWOOD CITY, Calif. March 27, 2007 Hudson Entertainment and Konami
> Digital Entertainment, Inc., today announced Honeycomb Beat for the Nintendo
> DS has shipped to retail stores nationwide. An addictive puzzle game
> featuring intuitive pick up and play action, Honeycomb Beat lets players
> manipulate hexagonal Honeycombs on the game board with a unique touch screen
> control scheme across two mind-bending modes of play.
>
> In Honeycomb Beat, players must use the Nintendo DS stylus to manipulate a
> formation of Honeycombs on the game screen. Touching Honeycombs flips them
> over, causing a ripple effect that changes the color of the surrounding
> panels. Using this simple yet addictive mechanic, players must meet certain
> level based objectives such clearing all Honeycombs from the game board by
> turning them the same color.
>
> Honeycomb Beat features more than 200 different puzzles for players to
> experience as they progress through the games Puzzle and Evolution modes.
> Puzzle Mode challenges players to manipulate all the Honeycombs on the board
> to turn them all the same color. There is no time limit, allowing players to
> explore every possible solution to the puzzle and implement a variety of
> strategies for success. Evolution Mode speeds the game up, as waves of
> Honeycombs rise vertically and players must think fast to clear lines of the
> hexagonal panels and keep them from filling the screen. By meeting certain
> gameplay goals in Puzzle and Evolution modes, players will unlock bonus
> content such as special music tracks, visualizers and backgrounds to
> customize their game experience.
>
> Honeycomb Beat is published by Hudson and distributed by Konami. The game is
> rated E for everyone by the ESRB and carries a suggested retail price of
> $19.99. For more information on Honeycomb Beat, please visit www.konami.com
> .
>
> About Hudson Entertainment, Inc.
> Hudson Entertainment is the North American publishing arm of Hudson Soft, an
> international provider of games and entertainment content founded in 1973.
> Hudson introduced best-selling classic videogame franchises including
> Bomberman, Bonk, and Super Adventure Island. Since 2000, Hudsons mobile
> division has been a leading supplier of games and personalized content.
> Through their partnership with The Source and Death Row Records, Hudson is a
> leading provider of hip-hop ring tones and mobile content. For more
> information on Hudson Entertainment, please visit
> www.HudsonEntertainment.com
>
> About Konami
> Konami is a leading developer, publisher and manufacturer of electronic
> entertainment properties. Konamis titles include the popular franchises
> Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill, Dance Dance Revolution 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,
> Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan, Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. in the United
> States and Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH in Frankfurt, Germany. Konami
> Corporation is traded in the United States on the New York Stock Exchange
> under the ticker symbol KNM. Details of the products published by Konami can
> be found at www.konami.com .
>
> KONAMI is a registered trademark of KONAMI CORPORATION.
>
> (c) 2006, 2007 HUDSON SOFT
>
> Nintendo DS is a trademark of Nintendo.

Posted using Meow

MIDWAY AND CARTOON NETWORK ANNOUNCE AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE

*/Game Based on Hit Animated Comedy from Adult Swim Scheduled for Release/*

*/on PlayStation2 Computer Entertainment System this Fall/*

*CHICAGO, IL March 21, 2007 * Midway Games Inc. (NYSE: MWY), a
leading interactive entertainment industry publisher and developer,
today announced that it will be developing an interactive title based on
the hit comedy series from Adult Swim - Aqua Teen Hunger Force. */Aqua
Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am/* is scheduled to be available for
the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system this fall. The series,
which follows the exploits of a trio of sentient fast-food items, has
also inspired a feature length film - /Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon
Movie Film For Theaters/ due in theaters April 13.

*/Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am/* is an epic,
//action-adventure combat golf, cart racing //game that gives fans an
opportunity to experience the Aqua Teen universe in a whole new way.
When Frylock is admitted to the prestigious Jersey Pines Golf Club,
Master Shake decides to show the uppity members that he is also just as
good (and uppity) and deserves a place in their exclusive club. Meatwad
is, of course, persuaded to join in, and the three crime-fighting food
products use golf clubs and a variety of other weapons in ways not
intended as they battle numerous villains, fan favorites and other show
characters.

Aqua Teen Hunger Force is a unique and completely hilarious property,
said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. We are working
closely with Aqua Teen creators Matt Maiellaro and Dave Willis to bring
the tone of the TV show and movie into a video game.

We are thrilled to be bringing the hilarious antics of Adult Swims
Aqua Teen Hunger Force to a one of kind gaming experience, said
Christina Miller, VP of Consumer Products for Cartoon Network
Enterprises, the networks global merchandising division. This game
will set a new standard for crime-fighting, golf-obsessed, food battles.

This golden chalice represents a new age in gaming, the likes of which
has never before been seen on this planet. The weak will tremble at the
awesomeness of our full color, hand-made graphics! said creators
Maiellaro and Willis simultaneously and in unison.

Aqua Teen Hunger Force is an original comedy series that is part of
Adult Swim, Cartoon Networks top-rated late-night sister service which
presents programming six nights per week for a total of 45 hours. Aqua
Teen Hunger Force had its series premiere in September 2001, when Adult
Swim launched. More than 60 episodes of the series have been completed
to date. The Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters, also
written and produced by Maiellaro and Willis, is scheduled to debut on
over 800 screens on April 13, and will uncover the mysterious origins of
Meatwad, Frylock and Master Shake.

*_About Adult Swim_*

Adult Swim (AdultSwim.com), launched in 2001, is Turner Broadcasting
System, Inc.s network offering original and acquired animated comedy
and action series for young adults. Airing overnights six days a week
for a total of 45 hours weekly, Adult Swim shares channel space with
Cartoon Network, home to the best in original, classic and acquired
programming for children and families, and is seen in 91 million U.S. homes.

*_About Midway_*

Midway Games Inc. (NYSE:MWY), headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with
offices throughout the world, is a leading developer and publisher of
interactive entertainment software for major videogame systems and
personal computers. More information about Midway and its products can
be found at www.midway.com .

AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE and all related characters and elements are
trademarks of and * *Cartoon Network.

(s07)

"PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony
Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property of
their respective companies.

Midway has provided the AdultSwim.com link solely as a convenience to
you. The information on this site has been prepared by third parties,
and Midway does not monitor, endorse or accept responsibility for the
content on non-Midway sites.

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
concerning future business conditions and the outlook for Midway Games
Inc. (the "Company") based on currently available information that
involves risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results could
differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking
statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, including,
without limitation, the financial strength of the interactive
entertainment industry, dependence on new product introductions and the
ability to maintain the scheduling of such introductions, the current
console platform transition and other technological changes, dependence
on major platform manufacturers and other risks more fully described
under "Item 1. Business - Risk Factors" in the Companys Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and in any more
recent filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. Each forward-looking statement, including, without
limitation, financial guidance, speaks only as of the date on which it
is made, and Midway undertakes no obligation to update any
forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the
date on which it is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or
unanticipated events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Posted using Meow

Bethesda Softworks Announces The Elder ScrollsR IV: Shivering

*/Official Expansion for/ The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion/, /*

*/Available on Windows and Xbox 360 Starting Today/*


*March 27, 2007 (Rockville, MD)* Bethesda Softworks, a ZeniMax Media
company, and 2K today announced that*/ The Elder Scrolls IV: Shivering
Isles/*, the official expansion for the award-winning*/ The Elder
Scrolls IV: Oblivion/*, is now shipping to retail stores throughout
North America for Windows.*/ Shivering Isles/* is also available today
on Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft via Xbox
Live online entertainment network.

*/Shivering Isles/* features more than 30 hours of new gameplay and
allows you to explore an entirely new plane of Oblivion the realm of
Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness.*/ Shivering Isles/* adds to
the existing world of*/ Oblivion/* so you can continue playing with your
existing save game/character, or create an all new character just to
explore the new content.

Within the Realm of Sheogorath, players can explore the two extreme
sides of the gods madness the sublimely creative and the completely
psychotic. Something is happening to the Shivering Isles and Sheogorath
himself looks to you to be his champion and defend his realm and its
inhabitants from destruction. Do you have the strength to survive his
trials, tame a realm fraught with paranoia and despair, and wear the
mantle of a God?

The Shivering Isles features a bizarre landscape split between the two
sides Mania and Dementia filled with vast, twisting dungeons
mirroring the roots of the trees they are buried within. Youll
encounter more than a dozen new creatures including hideous insects,
Flesh Atronachs, skeletal Shambles, and amphibious Grummites. Throughout
your adventure, you will discover all new items, ingredients, spells,
and much more. Or, you can have the talented craftsmen of Crucible and
Bliss forge new armor and weapons just for you.

Released in March 2006 for Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system
from Microsoft and Windows,*/ Oblivion/* sold more than three million
units in 2006. Among the countless awards and accolades it has garnered
to date are Game of the Year and RPG of the Year honors from numerous
outlets, including Spike TVs 2006 Video Game Awards, G4s G-phoria, the
Golden Joystick Awards, GameSpot.com, ShackNews.com, Voodoo Extreme,
FiringSquad.com, and many more.*/ Oblivion/* received the #1 ranking on
PC Gamers (UK) list of the top 100 games of all time and is the highest
rated Xbox 360 game of all time according to Gamerankings.com and
Metacritic.com.

The Windows version of*/ Shivering Isles/* is available at retail and is
co-published by Bethesda Softworks and 2K, while the Xbox 360 version is
available through Xbox Live online entertainment network by Bethesda
Softworks. For more information on*/ Oblivion/*,*/ Shivering Isles/*,
or*/ The Elder Scrolls/*, visit the official web site:
_www.elderscrolls.com_ .

_*About Bethesda Softworks*_

Headquartered in Rockville, MD, Bethesda Softworks LLC, a subsidiary of
ZeniMax Media Inc., is a premier developer and publisher of interactive
entertainment software and has produced numerous award-winning titles,
most recently with the 2006 PC and Xbox 360 Game of the Year and RPG of
the Year,/ The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion/ and the 2002 PC and Xbox
Game of the Year and RPG of the Year,/ The Elder Scrolls III:
Morrrowind/. Among Bethesdas more popular franchises are/ The Elder
Scrolls/ series and/ Fallout/, as well as its licensed properties such
as/ Star Trek./ Its product line spans the sports, racing, RPG,
strategy, and action genres. For more information on Bethesda Softworks
products, visit_ __www.bethsoft.com_ .

2007 Bethesda Softworks LLC, a ZeniMax Media company. The Elder
Scrolls, Shivering Isles, Oblivion, Morrowind, Bethesda Softworks,
ZeniMax and their related logos are registered trademarks or trademarks
of ZeniMax Media Inc. in the United States and/or in other countries.
Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, the Xbox logos, and the Xbox Live
logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other product and
company names referenced herein may be trademarks of their respective
owners. All Rights Reserved.

Posted using Meow

March 26, 2007

Wii-kly Update: New Classic Game Announced for Wii Shop Channel

March 26, 2007 Wii-kly Update: New Classic Game Announced for Wii Shop
Channel Today Nintendo adds a classic Super NES(R) game to the popular
Wii(TM) video game system's Wii Shop Channel. The game goes 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(TM) to download the
games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail
outlets. This week's new game is: Romance of the Three Kingdoms IV: Wall of
Fire(TM) (Super NES, 1-8 players, 800 Wii Points): Romance of the Three
Kingdoms IV is a tactical simulation game in which the player takes the role of
a ruler seeking to unite China in the era of the three kingdoms of Wei, Wu and
Shu. The role of the ruler is to command a range of officers with differing
characteristics - some cunning strategists, others brave warriors - and
strengthen the military might of his or her kingdom. Foreign policy, involving
forming alliances with certain kingdoms and hatching plans to weaken others,
will play a major role in this process. Once players have developed a powerful
enough military, it will be time to expand their borders through military
conquest. Ultimate victory will only be achieved once all 43 cities in China
lie within a player's control.

Posted using Meow

Dragon's Lair Blu-ray

*Classic Arcade Game Dragon’s Lair to be first BD-J Blu-ray Disc* Release*

GORMLEY, Ontario, Canada – March 26, 2007 – A milestone in interactive
High Definition technology has today been realized with the first ever
interactive BD-J title to be released for Blu-ray* Disc. And as HD
playback software and Blu-ray drives are now becoming standard PC
options, Dragon’s Lair Blu-ray promises stunning images on your PC.

An instant hit in its 1983 arcade debut, Dragon’s Lair has now been
digitally restored and enhanced with an all-new 5.1 surround sound mix.
Digital Leisure, with authoring partner Infinite HD, transferred the
video directly from the original film and painstakingly cleaned each
frame by hand, creating a truly vibrant image.

The game was programmed in the Blu-ray Java environment, or BD-J, an
advanced format that allows users to enjoy a fully arcade-authentic
experience. Dragon’s Lair is the first title to use this technology,
setting the standard for future interactive implementations of BD-J.

“I’ve seen the newly restored footage and it just looks amazing” says
Don Bluth, original creator of Dragon’s Lair. “It looks even better than
I can remember. The visuals, the 5.1 surround sound audio, all I can
say is ‘Wow!’ Now a whole new generation can enjoy Dragon’s Lair all
over again.”

* Unlike most current high definition releases, all of the special
features on the disc were shot natively in 1080p at 24fps. These include
brand-new interviews with creators Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and Rick
Dyer, and for the first time a full length visual commentary of the game.*

* Digital Leisure plans to follow up Dragon’s Lair Blu-ray with the
release of Space Ace and Dragon's Lair II: Time Warp in the Blu-ray Java
format. Dragon’s Lair Blu-ray will be available April 9^th at many
software and movie retailers as well as online at www.digitalleisure.com
.*

* Digital Leisure is a leading publisher of interactive video-based
titles. The company remasters video-intensive titles that benefit from
the superior video and audio quality of DVD and the newest High
Definition formats.*

*Blu-ray is* a registered trademark of the Blu-ray Disc Association*.

Click here for screenshots and other exciting details:
http://www.digitalleisure.com/contents/Blurayvideo_games.htm

Posted using Meow

March 23, 2007

ACTIVISION TO RELEASE NEW MARVEL: ULTIMATE ALLIANCE HEROES AND VILLAINS ON XBOX LIVER MARKETPLACE

Santa Monica, CA - March 23, 2007 - Expanding on the experience of
> controlling the world's largest army of Super Heroes on the Xbox 360(tm)
> video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Activision, Inc.
> (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today plans to release Marvel: Ultimate
> Alliance Heroes and Villains. The expansion packs feature eight new
> playable characters: The Incredible Hulk, Magneto, Hawkeye, Sabretooth,
> Doctor Doom, Cyclops, Nightcrawler and Venom, each complete with new
> signature powers, skins, dialog, conversations and achievement points.
> The download will be available in April via the Xbox Live* Marketplace
> online gaming service.
>
>
>
> "The signature gameplay of Marvel: Ultimate Alliance has made it a
> favorite among fans, as well as the best-selling Super Hero game on the
> Xbox 360 to-date," said Rob Kostich, vice president of global brand
> management, Activision, Inc. "By adding some of the biggest names in the
> Marvel Universe to the roster we're enabling Xbox 360 gamers to build a
> variety of all-new teams and enjoy the epic action in brand new ways."
>
> Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is the award-winning 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 a total of over 140 popular Marvel
> characters and a playable cast of more than 20 Super Heroes, including
> Spider-Man, Wolverine, Blade and Captain America, gamers 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.
>
> The downloadable content will be released in three packs. The Hero Pack
> and Villain Pack will each be 500 Microsoft points ($6.25) and the
> Combined Hero and Villain Pack will be 800 Microsoft points ($10).
> Heroes and Villains gamer pic packs will also be available for 80
> Microsoft points each ($1).
>
>
>
> Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is currently available for the Xbox 360 for
> the suggested retail price of $59.99 and rated "T" (Teen - Mild
> Language, Violence) 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 .
>
> Cautionary Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: The statements
> made in this press release that are not historical facts are
> "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are
> based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks
> and uncertainties. The company cautions readers of this press release
> that a number of important factors could cause Activision's actual
> future results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
> forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
> the findings of the special sub-committee, the effect of the special
> sub-committee's review and conclusions on, and other developments in,
> the informal inquiry opened by the SEC in July 2006 and the derivative
> litigation filed in July 2006 against certain current and former
> directors and officers of the company,