Game On!

***/VIRTUA FIGHTER 5/** NOW AVAILABLE ON XBOX 360*

/Premier Fighting Game Franchise Ships to Retailers Nationwide With /

/Online Head-to-Head VS. //Mode/

* *

*SAN FRANCISCO *(October 30, 2007) � SEGA� of America, Inc. announced
today that the highly-anticipated arcade fighting game, /Virtua
Fighter�/ /5 /for the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment system, has
shipped to retail outlets in North America.

/Virtua Fighter�/ /5 /features an online two-player VS. mode via Xbox
LIVE^� online entertainment network, allowing /Virtua Fighter�/ players
to compete online. Players can select one of the 17 characters and
customize a character in Quest mode. Customization features enable
players to modify their characters with one of four base costumes and a
wide range of unlockable and earnable items. Players can achieve victory
and earn in-game money by defeating highly-skilled opponents, which
enables them to purchase many items at an in-game shop.

/ /

/Virtua Fighter�/ /5 /is based on the latest arcade version update and
features both analog stick and D-pad control, as well as vibration
support. The game also includes an improved Quest mode featuring more
CPU rivals, items, and emblems for character customization. The DOJO
mode has added features including leaderboards, training move settings,
improved throw escape training, and the option to change your opponent�s
position and recovery type. These all work to create a more refined DOJO
mode where players can improve their fighting strategy.

�This is the moment /Virtua Fighter�/ fans have been waiting for �
online head-to-head fighting for /Virtua Fighter�/ /5/,� said Rick
Naylor, Director of Marketing, SEGA of America. �The introduction of
online play opens up the /Virtua Fighter�/ competition arena to a global
scale, enabling players to compete and challenge anyone, anywhere,
anytime, using Xbox LIVE.�

Created by the renowned development team AM R&D Department #2 out of
SEGA Corporation, Japan, /Virtua Fighter�/ /5/ is rated �T� for Teen by
the ESRB and has an MSRP of $59.95. For more information, please visit
the official Web site at www.sega.com/VF5 . For
art assets, please visit the SEGA Press site at
http://segapr.segaamerica.com .

*_About SEGA of America Inc.: _*

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 Ltd.:_*

SEGA� Europe Ltd. is the European Distribution 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. The SEGA� Europe Web Site is located at www.sega-europe.com
.

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Ubisoft's Video Game, Based on the Popular U.S. Animation Series Arrives =
in North American Retailers This Week



SAN FRANCISCO ? October 30, 2007 ? Today Ubisoft, one of the world's larg=
est video game publishers, announced that NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja(TM), ex=
clusive to the Xbox 360=AE video game and entertainment system from Micro=
soft, has released and will be arriving on North American store shelves t=
his week. The NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja video game is based on VIZ Media's =
hugely popular NARUTO(TM) animation series which airs on Cartoon Network.=
=20

"Not only is NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja the first original NARUTO video game=
developed for North America, it melds an open-world action-adventure wit=
h a cutting-edge fight game,? said Tony Key, vice president of marketing =
at Ubisoft. "It remains true to the NARUTO universe that will make fans p=
roud, as well as provides a full and action-packed experience to new recr=
uits.?

In NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja, players will experience NARUTO starting from =
the series' beginning, and will be able to relive the hit animation and m=
anga and experience Naruto's transformation from noisy ninja-academy fail=
ure to respected ninja. =20

Key features of NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja include:
? Experience Growing Up As Naruto: The only game that allows you to step=
into Naruto's shoes from the series' beginning. Complete authentic missi=
ons and relive the NARUTO manga and animation experience.

? Immerse Yourself in the NARUTO Universe: Roam freely and discover authe=
ntic environments. Explore the Leaf Village and its surroundings. Inter=
act with Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi and members from the NARUTO cast. =20

? Unparalleled Depth and Variety of Gameplay: The first NARUTO game to c=
ombine action adventure gameplay, classic platforming battles, head-to-he=
ad fighting and in-depth character development.=20

? Build Your Fighting Techniques to Defeat Deadly Enemies in Fast-Paced C=
ombat: Define your own way of the ninja as you learn to better control yo=
ur chakra, improve your techniques, master new taijutsus and ninjutsus, a=
nd command more powerful ninja weapons. Train with Kakashi-Sensei and lea=
rn to execute hand signs with your controller's sticks. =20

? Play With Friends: Select your favorite NARUTO character and challenge =
a friend. Customize your character and pick your own battle field. Or ch=
allenge the world's best on the Xbox LIVE=AE online gaming system.

NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja ships with an ESRB rating of "T? (Teen), and a ma=
nufacturer suggested retail price of $59.99.

For more information on NARUTO: Rise of a Ninja and NARUTO, please visit =
the game's official website at: www.NarutoXbox360Game.com and www.viz.nar=
uto.com.

Naruto:(TM) Rise of a Ninja(TM) software =A9 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. =
All Rights Reserved. Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademark=
s of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. NARUTO art=
work and elements =A9 2002 MASASHI KISHIMOTO. All Rights Reserved. SHONEN=
JUMP(TM), NARUTO(TM) and RISE OF A NINJA(TM) are trademarks of Shueisha,=
Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. This product is manufactured, d=
istributed and sold in North, South and Central American territories unde=
r license from VIZ Media, LLC. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and =
the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

About Ubisoft:=20
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive e=
ntertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a stro=
ng and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offic=
es in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. =
It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game title=
s to consumers. Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006=
-07 fiscal year. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.

About VIZ Media, LLC:
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of=
the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga pu=
blishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owne=
d by three of Japan's largest creators and licensors of manga and animati=
on, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (=
ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution o=
f Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a gl=
obal licensor of Japanese animation. The company offers an integrated pro=
duct line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphi=
c novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animat=
ed entertainment from initial production, television placement and distri=
bution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consume=
rs of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94=
133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and at www.VIZ.com.

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*_FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE_*
**
*TOR BOOKS LAUNCHES / HALO^� : CONTACT HARVEST/ TODAY*

* *

*/Bungie Lead Writer, Joseph Staten, Pens Latest in Best-Selling Series /*

New York , NY � Tuesday October 30, 2007 - Tor Books, an imprint of Tom
Doherty Associates, LLC�the largest publisher of science fiction in the
world�announces the launch of /Halo/�: /Contact Harvest/. The new novel
is the latest of the /New York Times / bestselling series based on the
hugely successful Microsoft and Bungie Studios' /Halo/� video games for
the Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system. / Halo: Contact
Harvest/ is written by Joseph Staten, Bungie Studios' lead writer and
one of the original creators of the Halo game trilogy.

Though /Halo:/ /Contact Harvest / marks Joseph Staten first foray into
novel writing, he has served as a writer and cinematics director for
Halo (2001) and Halo 2 (2004) and the record-breaking Halo 3.

In/ Halo: Contact Harvest/, Staten reveals the state of the Halo
universe leading up to humanity's devastating first contact with the
Covenant �a chance encounter that catapulted mankind into a struggle for
its very existence. Readers will experience the start of the
Human-Covenant war from the perspective of Staff Sergeant Avery Johnson,
Master Chief's legendary confidant and mentor. As readers follow the
young Sergeant's adventures, they will gain terrifying insights into
both the Covenant's genocidal fury and the vicious civil war that
threatened to destroy humanity's fledgling interstellar empire, even
before the Covenant got their chance.

"It goes without saying that Joseph has great, intimate knowledge of the
Halo universe, so who better to tell the harrowing tale of humanity's
first contact with the Covenant?" says Tor Editor Eric Raab. "In the
novel, Joseph not only reveals exciting nuances of known events and
characters such as Sgt. Johnson. But he also breaks new ground �takes
readers on an action-packed journey to a little-known but vital part of
the Halo universe: the far-flung, ill-fated word of Harvest."

Halo has emerged from the video game world as a global phenomenon. Its
latest installment, Halo 3, garnered more than $300 million in its first
week alone, making it the fastest selling video game ever, and one of
the most successful entertainment properties ever. With a fully
fleshed-out universe of heroes, villains and epic scenarios, the novels
expand the universe to give fans a grander view of the game environments
and characters they encounter.

To date, over 20 million copies of the games in the /Halo/ trilogy have
been sold worldwide. The record week one sales comes on the heels of the
previously announced $170 million in sales in the U.S. within the first
24 hours of the game's release, which marked not just the biggest
videogame launch, but the biggest entertainment launch in history. The
Xbox 360 title beat previous U.S. sales records set by blockbuster
openings for entertainment events like the release of Spider-Man 3 and
/Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows/. Additionally, more than 1.7
million copies of /Halo 3/ were preordered in the United States, making
it the fasting pre-selling game in history, surpassing the previous
record-setting pre-sales of /Halo 2
/.

_About Tor Books_

Tor Books, an imprint of Tom Doherty Associates, LLC, is a New
York-based publisher of hardcover and softcover books, founded in
1980 and committed (although not limited) to SF and fantasy
literature. Between an extensive hardcover and trade-softcover line,
an Orb backlist program, and a stronghold in mass-market paperback,
Tor annually publishes what is arguably the largest and most diverse
line of science fiction and fantasy ever produced by a single
English-language publisher. Books from Tor have won every major
award in the SF and fantasy fields, and for the last twenty years in
a row we have been named Best Publisher in the Locus Poll, the
largest consumer poll in SF.

*HALO/^� / : Contact Harvest by Joseph Staten*

A Tor Trade Paperback Original

On-Sale Date: October 30, 2007

Cover Price: $14.95

Also Available from Audio Renaissance Unabridged CD $29.95

Available everywhere in the English speaking world

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This Halloween, you needn't leave your own living room to encounter spooky
spirits and creepy creatures from mysterious otherworlds. The Wii Shop Channel
is celebrating the year's most frightfully fun holiday by offering a mix of
eerie games that'll keep players' spines tingling. Mash with monsters in a
classic Castlevania sequel, tangle with supernatural samurai or battle as a
powerful magician-you're bound to discover cool tricks and visual treats no
matter which titles you choose. Happy Hallo-Wii!Today Nintendo adds three new
classic games to the popular 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(TM) to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop
Channel or at retail outlets.

This week's new games are:

Castlevania(R) II Simon's Quest (NES(R), 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Mild
Fantasy Violence, 500 Wii Points): In this one-player adventure, you'll take on
the role of Simon Belmont once again and duel to the death with Count Dracula.
Grab your legendary whip, Vampire Killer, and roam freely through Transylvania
on a quest to find the count's missing body parts-these are the key to breaking
an evil curse. This quest won't be easy, though, for you must battle hideous
fiends who stalk the land. In addition to the intense action and tight control
the Castlevania series is known for, this sequel also introduced several unique
game-play elements into the fold. Build experience the longer you play, buy
weapons and items from merchants, or talk with villagers to get clues (some of
which are false). Watch as day turns to night and then back again. Take a deep
breath, steady your nerves, and help Simon end his curse and defeat the count
once and for all.

SAMURAI-GHOST(TM) (TurboGrafx16, 1 player, Rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and Older
- Animated Blood and Violence, 600 Wii Points): This action platformer features
a samurai ghost from the depths of the underworld. In a past war, Kagekiyo
managed to defeat the shogun Yoritomo and his clan. However, their evil spirits
were not completely destroyed, and now, in the world known as Dark Side, they
seek the time of their rebirth. In order to shatter those ambitions, Kagekiyo
must make his way across seven zones and head for "The Heart of the Darkside"
where Yoritomo lies in wait. Use spirit weapons to power up your sword, or
other items, such as candles to recover health, and defeat the endless hordes
of enemies. Each zone is not only protected by a boss but also includes demons
as well as real samurai from 12th-century Japan. Get ready for some intense
one-on-one combat action.

MAGICIAN LORD (NEOGEO, 1-2 players, Rated T for Teen - Blood and Fantasy
Violence, 900 Wii Points): Released in 1990 and regarded as one of the NEOGEO's
earliest signature games, this side-scrolling platformer mixes action with the
mystical world of fantasy. A magician named Elta, last descendant of the famed
Magician Lord, takes on an epic adventure to save the world from the evil
Gul-Agieze. Elta must battle through eight stages, collecting the eight tomes
of power that are key to defeating Gul-Agieze and his evil plans. By obtaining
orbs in one of three colors (elements) that appear during the game, Elta's
offensive powers and jumping abilities can be strengthened. The effect varies
considerably depending on the combination of elements, though, and Elta can
transform into six different forms: Waterman, Dragon Warrior, Shinobi, Samurai,
Raijin or Poseidon. Can you help Elta to become the new Magician Lord?

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MTV Games and Harmonix Unveil Set List for Rock Band
Video Game to Feature 58 Tracks Including Songs from Mega Rock Artists
Rolling Stones, Metallica, The Police, The Clash, Foo Fighters,
Radiohead and More

Cambridge, Massachusetts � October 29, 2007 � Harmonix, the leading
developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a division of Viacom�s
MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with distribution partner
Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:ERTS), announced today the final song list for
its highly anticipated music videogame Rock Band�. Featuring the most
master recordings of any music game ever by the world�s biggest rock
artists, Rock Band includes 58 tracks and spans every genre of rock
ranging from alternative and classic rock to heavy metal and punk. With
multiple instruments and an impressive selection of online and offline
game modes to choose from to play as a band or individually, Rock Band
offers an infinite number of ways to play each song and live out their
ultimate rock and roll fantasies.

�Our goal with Rock Band was to give players the chance to experience an
amazing cross section of music from the last four decades, and our final
list of tracks includes everything from emerging bands to iconic
artists,� stated Paul DeGooyer, MTV�s Senior Vice President of Home
Entertainment, Music and Games. �The overwhelmingly positive response
from artists, music publishers and record labels made the final
selection process challenging, but extremely exciting. As a result, 51
out of 58 of the final selections are based on original masters, giving
fans an unprecedented way to get closer to the music they love.�

Eric Brosius, Harmonix audio lead stated, �Now that the disc track list
is locked and Rock Band is being prepped for manufacture, we are working
with our music partners to set an exciting download schedule, both for
launch and beyond. Through DLC, players will have the ability to take a
deeper dive into the music of the artists featured on the Rock Band
disc, or further explore different genres of rock or additional bands if
they choose.�

Rock Band Set List:
In addition to the 45 tracks listed below, Rock Band will also feature
13 songs ranging from a variety of established bands to up-and-coming
independent artists that can be unlocked as you play through the game.

1960s
Rolling Stones "Gimme Shelter"

1970s
Aerosmith �Train Kept a Rollin��*
The Who "Won't Get Fooled Again"
Boston �Foreplay/Long Time�
Mountain "Mississippi Queen"*
The Police �Next to You�
David Bowie "Suffragette City"
Black Sabbath "Paranoid"*
Blue Oyster Cult "Don't Fear the Reaper"
The Ramones "Blitzkrieg Bop"
Deep Purple "Highway Star"
KISS "Detroit Rock City"
Molly Hatchet �Flirtin� With Disaster�
The Outlaws �Green Grass & High Tides�*
Sweet �Ballroom Blitz�*

1980s
Rush "Tom Sawyer"*
Bon Jovi "Wanted Dead or Alive"
The Clash "Should I Stay or Should I Go"
Faith No More "Epic"
R.E.M. �Orange Crush�
Iron Maiden �Run to the Hills�*

1990s
Foo Fighters "Learn to Fly"
Metallica "Enter Sandman"
Nirvana "In Bloom"
Stone Temple Pilots "Vasoline"
Weezer "Say It Ain't So"
Smashing Pumpkins "Cherub Rock"
Radiohead "Creep"
Beastie Boys "Sabotage"
Hole "Celebrity Skin"
Garbage "I Think I'm Paranoid"
Soundgarden "Black Hole Sun"

2000s
The Hives "Main Offender"
Queens of the Stone Age "Go With the Flow"
The Strokes "Reptilia"
Jet "Are You Gonna Be My Girl"
OK Go "Here It Goes Again"
Nine Inch Nails "The Hand That Feeds"
Pixies "Wave of Mutilation"
Yeah Yeah Yeahs "Maps"
Red Hot Chili Peppers "Dani California"
Coheed & Cambria �Welcome Home�
Fallout Boy �Dead on Arrival�
The Killers �When You Were Young�
New Pornographers �Electric Version�

* Indicates a cover song, all others songs are original master recordings

Rock Band is a new platform for music fans and gamers to interact with
music like never before, challenging users to master the lead/bass
guitar, drums, and vocals as solo artists or cooperatively as part of
their own band.

Rock Band is slated for release on Xbox 360� video game and
entertainment system from Microsoft� and PLAYSTATION�3 computer
entertainment system on November 20, 2007, and on PLAYSTATION�2 computer
entertainment system December 18, 2007 in North America.

Rock Band will ship for the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment
system from Microsoft� and PLAYSTATION�3 computer entertainment system
and PLAYSTATION�2 computer entertainment system in the first quarter of
2008 in Europe.

Rock Band is rated �T� for Teen (lyrics, mild suggestive themes) by the
ESRB.

EA will serve as the exclusive distribution and marketing partner for
Rock Band, managing distribution for the game in US, Europe and Australia.

For more information on Rock Band and Harmonix Music Systems please
visit www.rockband.com and www.harmonixmusic.com.

#####

About MTV Networks:
MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the
world's leading creators of programming and content across all media
platforms. MTV Networks, with 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates
the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION,
MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND,
SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and
THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services,
all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects
with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and
its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online,
broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has
licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all
of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About MTV Games:
MTV Games is dedicated to creating, marketing and publishing
high-quality, innovative interactive products that are relevant to the
MTV audience and complement the core values of the MTV Networks brands.

About Harmonix Music Systems, Inc:
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc., based in Cambridge, MA, and established in
1995, is the leading developer of groundbreaking music-oriented
videogames. Harmonix was founded by Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy, who
formed the company to invent new ways for non-musicians to experience
the unique joy that comes from making music and have pioneered music and
rhythm gaming in the US. For more information please visit:
http://www.harmonixmusic.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 video game systems, personal computers, cellular
handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under
four brand names: EA SPORTS�, EA�, EA SPORTS BIG� and POGO�. In fiscal
2007, EA posted revenue of $3.09 billion and had 24 titles that sold
more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is
www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press
releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.

� 2007 Harmonix Music Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Harmonix, Rock
Band and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Harmonix Music
Systems, Inc., a division of MTV Networks. Rock Band developed by
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc. MTV: Music Television, MTV Games and all
related titles and logos are trademarks of MTV Networks, a division of
Viacom International Inc. All other marks are the property of their
respective owners.

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--

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I was lucky enough to be invited up to MTV the other day to take a look at the upcoming Rock Band. First of all, that building is really something. The lobby has a big waterfall and they actually had someone playing piano. I couldn't help but wonder when Sarrel Group is going to hire a pianist to play in the lobby during lunch time. Second of all, the room they showed me the game in was like a home theater lab and was very cool. Big huge projection screen TV and a massive sound system. Add that to an inside look at one of the most anticipated games of the year and what could be bad?

To cut to the chase, I loved it. I had a great time playing the game. So much fun. It really tapped the closet musician in me. Much more than Guitar Hero, which is a hell of a lot of fun too, but Rock Band gives you more variety. If I felt like playing guitar I could. If I wanted to sing I could. Or I could play drums. Or not play drums very well as it would turn out. I wish there were more songs in the game, but overall I totally have to recommend Rock Band for people who want to play music games.

My love affair with Harmonix began back in the day of Frequency and Amplitude. At one point I reviewed Amplitude as one of the most innovative games to come out on PS2. Gameplay has remained essentially the same and I love it. This is apparently the culmination of everything that Harmonix has been working towards over the years.

The hook here is that you can play bass, guitar, drums, or sing. There is a real group experience. People can form their own band and then play together either in one place or online. The cool thing is that how well each of you play affects the overall score and the band's success. If someone screws up the others can bail them out with "overdrive" which is similar to GH's "star power". Guitar and bass are the same. Drums was really hard for me. After screwing up over and over again I developed the theory that I can no longer move my arms to push buttons as part of a game - I can only move my fingers to push buttons in a game. Vocals kicked ass. I have always wanted to scream Mississippi Queen (you know what I mean) while pretending I'm Leslie West.

One of the things they've done is try to build the experience of an actual performance. The HUD (or track down which the notes float) has been minimized. Where GH seemed cartoony, Rock Band has put the emphasis on being realistic. They did mocap with a bunch of bands and a crowd. It doesn't sound like much because the real core of the game is still the same, but it does make it feel a little more real.

They're going to sell this as a bundle with the instruments for $169 and just the game separately for $59.99. Guitars from previous games may or may not work with Rock Band - official party line is that the game will work with any Xbox or PS3 "standard" controller. The PS3 version will ship with a wireless guitar. The Xbox 360 version includes a USB hub so that all the guitars, drums, microphone, etc can be connected at once.

World Tour mode is where it all really shines. This is the career mode. Create a band and a bunch of musicians and then hit the road. Creating musicians is very detailed with many more options for customization that GH. You pick your character's name, hometown, attitude (which affects how he/she moves on the stage), and physique (height, weight, facial features, hair, skin). I think I heard someone say that you can design a t-shirt in the game and then get it made in real life. Tattoos (and stickers for guitars) are almost completely customizable. You can pick one or make one, resize it, move it, and place it anywhere.

There will be a full review coming. I'm not allowed to talk about the songs in any detail. But I love this game. And I'm usually the guy who writes bad previews because he isn't impressed. I can't wait until Rock Band comes out.

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/Xbox 360 Expansion Pack for the Epic Sci-Fi Action RPG /

/ Soon to be Available for Download Via Xbox Live/�//

/ /

*SAN FRANCISCO *(October 25, 2007) � SEGA� of America, Inc. today
released details for /Phantasy Star/�/ Universe: Ambition of the
Illuminus /for the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment system from
Microsoft, Playstation�2 computer entertainment system and for PC.
/Phantasy Star/�/ Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus /is/ /an expansion
to the epic sci-fi action role-playing game,/ Phantasy Star Universe,
/and will be available on November 20, 2007/. /The Xbox Live/ /download
will be available for 1600 Microsoft Points/$20 USD and the
PlayStation�2 computer entertainment system and PC versions will be
available at retailers across North America for $39.95 USD.

Whether tackling quests online with a party of up to six adventurers, or
fighting through the next chapters of the exciting online story missions
from the original game, /Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the
Illuminus /enables gamers to experience the wonders of the Gurhal System
through the eyes of a personalized avatar. The expansion pack/ /allows
gamers to experience an even richer and more varied /Phantasy Star
/experience. Players will explore exciting new levels, such as the Ruins
of Old Rozenom City and the subterranean Granigs Mines, where they will
encounter new and more powerful enemy types and bosses, and master
additional versatile class types.

The expansion further enriches the online /Phantasy Star Universe/
experience with newly created and enhanced gameplay and customization
features. Players can commune in new and expanded lobby areas filled
with colorful decorations and music, including the new Casino Voloyal
where roulette and slots can earn players special casino-only items.
Character and weapon customization is even deeper with the introduction
of new weapon types, armor, Photon Arts, and clothing. Also, each
Guardian�s individual Room is upgraded with far greater options for
customization.

/Phantasy Star Universe: Ambition of the Illuminus/ continues the
exciting single-player action-RPG storyline as a new Human
Fundamentalist group, known as the Illuminus, disrupts the peaceful
Gurhal System throwing the Gurhal Government into chaos. Using their
custom-made Guardian, players embark upon a series of missions where
they will meet familiar characters like Ethan Waber from /Episode 1/ and
others including GUARDIAN instructor Laia Martinez from /Episode 2/.

Since its introduction in 1988, /Phantasy Star/ has revolutionized the
RPG genre by creating new standards through innovative gameplay, as well
as being the first console RPG to offer an online experience in
/Phantasy Star Online. /This new installment also expands the popular
online adventure of its predecessor and continues the quest for peace in
the Gurhal System.

/Phantasy Star Universe: //Ambition of the Illuminus/ is rated �T� by
the ESRB. For art and assets, please visit http://segapr.segaamerica.com
. Online play requires a subscription,
for more detailed information, please go to the official website at
www.phantasystaruniverse.com .
Please note that the Xbox 360 download requires the original /Phantasy
Star Universe/ game.

/*/_ _/*/

/*/_About SEGA of America, Inc.:_/*/
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. The SEGA� of
America, Inc. Web site is located at _www.SEGA.com _.

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UBISOFT ANNOUNCES ASSASSIN'S CREED(TM) VIDEO GAME HAS GONE GOLD ?

LAUNCHING NOVEMBER 13

SAN FRANCISCO ? October 25, 2007 ? Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced its highly anticipated Assassin's Creed(TM) video game has gone "gold? and is set to launch in North America on November 13, 2007. The title is one of the most anticipated games for the holiday season, arriving on the PLAYSTATION�3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment system from Microsoft at the MSRP of $59.99 with the Limited Edition priced at $69.99 ? rated "M? for Mature by the ESRB. In addition, those who pre-order Assassin's Creed at GameStop will receive an exclusive Assassin's Creed art book bonus when they pick up their game.

"We've been working very hard for nearly four years to make Assassin's Creed a reality and now there is a confirmed date when players will get to experience the results of our efforts,? shared Jade Raymond, producer of Assassin's Creed. "This is a huge event for the team. Our biggest reward will be everyone having a lot of good solid fun.?

About Assassin's Creed
The game is set in 1191 AD, when the Third Crusade was tearing the Holy Land apart. Shrouded in secrecy and feared for their ruthlessness, the Assassins intend to stop the hostilities by suppressing both sides of the conflict. Players will assume the role of the main character, Altair, and will have the power to throw their immediate environment into chaos and truly experience the art of a master assassin. For more information, please visit www.assassinscreed.com.

About Ubisoft:
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers. Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006-07 fiscal year. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.

� 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Assassin's Creed, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. "PlayStation?, "PLAYSTATION?, and "PS? Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.

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*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE *

*SEGA GETS SHAKIN� WITH /SAMBA DE AMIGO/*

/ /

*LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO* (October 25 2007) - SEGA� of America, Inc. and
SEGA� Europe Ltd. are excited to announce that they are bringing back
/Samba De Amigo�/, the Dreamcast classic that helped to create the
now-popular rhythm music genre. Created exclusively for the Wii home
video game system, this vibrant and addictive new game lets players
shake to the beats of a samba-infused soundtrack comprised of popular
new songs as well as fan-favorites from the original game.

Playing as the grinning, sombrero-topped monkey, Amigo, players shake
the Wii Remote and Nunchuk like maracas, in time with the visual beats
of the music on-screen. The perfect party game, /Samba De Amigo/ is
packed with lively stages and a host of colorful characters. More
details about this exciting new title including a full song listing as
well as new special features will be revealed over the next few months.

�The Wii�s controllers enable players to enjoy /Samba De Amigo/�s unique
gameplay without having to purchase an expensive peripheral,� said Rick
Naylor, Director of Marketing at SEGA. �Between the music, the quirky
art style, and the maraca-shaking players, /Samba De Amigo/ is as much
fun to watch as it is to play.�

Developed by acclaimed developer, Gearbox Software, /Samba De Amigo/
will be exclusively available for the Wii in spring 2008. For more
information, please visit www.sega.com .
For press assets use: http://segapr.segaamerica.com
.

_ _

/*/_About SEGA of America, Inc.:_/*/
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. The SEGA of
America Web Site is located at www.SEGA.com .

*_About SEGA Europe Limited:_*

SEGA� Europe Limited is the European Distribution arm of Tokyo,
Japan-based SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive
entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company 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
.

/*/_About Gearbox Software_/*/
Gearbox Software, located in Dallas, TX, is respected industry-wide for
their ability to create award winning, bestselling interactive
entertainment. The company has established itself as a premier
developer, creating games for many of the industry's top franchises
including Halo: Combat Evolved, Half-Life: Opposing Force, Aliens and
Tony Hawk as well as developing their own blockbuster franchises in
Brothers in Arms and Borderlands. The company is currently developing
multiple original titles for next generation video game consoles and
Windows Vista. Additional information regarding Gearbox Software can be
found at www.gearboxsoftware.com
.

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HARMONIX, MTV GAMES AND ELECTRONIC ARTS BLEND ROCK FANTASY AND REALITY
WITH ROCKBAND.com

Social Website Allows Rock Band� Community to Create Custom Band
Homepages and Network via �Musicians Meeting Musicians� Classified Section

Cambridge, Massachusetts � October 25, 2007 � Harmonix, the leading
developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a division of MTV
Networks which is a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with
distribution partner Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS), revealed today
details for the ROCKBAND.com social community website. The site will
launch on November 20, alongside the North American release of Rock Band
for the PLAYSTATION�3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360 � video
game entertainment system from Microsoft�. A PlayStation 2 version of
the game will also ship on December 18.

The ROCKBAND.com Web site will incllude in-depth Rock Band�
leaderboards, personal and band home pages, and a �Musicians Meeting
Musicians� classified section to help form bands online. The site will
also give fans the opportunity to create their own Rocker Profile pages
and communicate with other Community members, blogging about their
musical tastes and meeting others with similar interests.

�ROCKBAND.com blurs the lines between fantasy and reality, � said
Melissa Macaulay, Producer of ROCKBAND.com, Harmonix. �The site allows
you to hype your in-game band�s accomplishments, while providing a forum
to meet other real-life people and potential band mates who share your
musical tastes.�

ROCKBAND.com Features:

Personal & Band Pages: ROCKBAND.com will automatically load your in-game
characters and game stats from an online database so your personal
profile page will always be up to date. Choose from four genres in the
game to customize your profile pages with cool background skins that
reflect your rock tastes.

Band Classifieds: Find and create your own band through the ROCKBAND.com
Band Classifieds page. Here you can advertise your own rocker skills or
search through dozens of rocker profiles to choose band mates who share
similar music tastes.

Rock Band Leaderboards: Climb to the top of the charts as a solo artist
or band! From band rankings to solo scores, the ROCKBAND.com
leaderboards will earn you fame and fortune as you progress on your
journey to Rock Band stardom.

Rocker Blogs: Find out what�s happening behind the scenes with your
favorite bands through their blogs. Use your blog to communicate with
band mates about practice times, meet others with similar musical
interests and keep your groupies in the loop with the website�s unique
blogs.

Rock Band Forums: Interact with other rockers and music lovers about
anything and everything rock!

Photo Creator: (Coming Soon!) Take the ultimate promo band or solo shot
with the website�s Photo Creator. Pick a location, the right lighting,
and a coordinated (or not!) pose for your band. Take it over the top
cheesy or seriously intense. It�s all about your band�s total image.

�We see ROCKBAND.com as a true extension of the Rock Band world. It will
be an awesome way to meet new people who have similar musical tastes,�
said Josh Randall, Creative Director for Harmonix. �With ROCKBAND.com
players will be able to come together and express themselves in a
collaborative manner, which is what playing music is all about.�

Harmonix has partnered with the San Francisco creative powerhouse
Mekanism to build the social networking site.

�We are designing ROCKBAND.com as an online home for your band, and as a
creative platform for living out your rock and roll fantasy�, said Pete
Caban, partner at SF-based digital studio Mekanism. �The bands and
rockers that you can create in Rock Band are insanely unique, and it�s
going to be fascinating to watch this community come to life.�

Rock Band is slated is also slated for release in Europe in Q1 2008. The
game is rated T for Teen by the ESRB. For more information on Rock Band
and Harmonix Music Systems please visit www.ROCKBAND.com and
www.harmonixmusic.com.

#####
About MTV Networks:
MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the
world's leading creators of programming and content across all media
platforms. MTV Networks, with 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates
the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION,
MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND,
SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and
THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services,
all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects
with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and
its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online,
broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has
licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all
of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About MTV Games:
MTV Games is dedicated to creating, marketing and publishing
high-quality, innovative interactive products that are relevant to the
MTV audience and complement the core values of the MTV Networks brands.

About Harmonix Music Systems, Inc:
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc., based in Cambridge, MA, and established in
1995, is the leading developer of groundbreaking music-oriented
videogames. Harmonix was founded by Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy, who
formed the company to invent new ways for non-musicians to experience
the unique joy that comes from making music and have pioneered music and
rhythm gaming in the US. For more information please visit:
http://www.harmonixmusic.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 video game systems, personal computers, cellular
handsets and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under
four brand names: EA SPORTS�, EA�, EA SPORTS BIG� and POGO�. In fiscal
2007, EA posted revenue of $3.09 billion and had 24 titles that sold
more than one million copies. EA's homepage and online game site is
www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press
releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.

� 2007 Harmonix Music Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Harmonix, Rock
Band and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Harmonix Music
Systems, Inc., a division of MTV Networks. Rock Band developed by
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc. MTV: Music Television, MTV Games and all
related titles and logos are trademarks of MTV Networks, a division of
Viacom International Inc. All other marks are the property of their
respective owners.

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> New console includes five games, wireless controller and storage to save
> games - all for the incredible value of $279.99
>
> REDMOND, Wash. - Oct. 22, 2007 - Just in time for holiday, Microsoft Corp.
> today released a new Xbox 360� console that delivers games and content to
> everyone in the family for an incredible value of $279.99 (U.S. estimated
> retail price)*. Available in stores beginning today, Xbox 360 Arcade console
> is the first Xbox 360 console to include five family-friendly games, a
> wireless controller, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) connection
> to enable high-definition output if desired and 256 MB of memory useful for
> storing games and entertainment content. At $279.99, the Xbox 360 Arcade
> console will include five best-selling games: "PAC-MAN Championship Edition"
> (NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc.), "Uno" (Carbonated Games), "Luxor 2"
> (MumboJumbo), "Boom Boom Rocket" (Electronic Arts Inc.) and "Feeding Frenzy"
> (Sprout Games).
>
> "As families gather together this holiday, it's the perfect time to launch a
> new low-priced, high-value Xbox 360 that plays games, TV shows and music for
> everyone to enjoy," said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global
> marketing, Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. "In addition to
> offering an incredible all-in-one package for families to get right into the
> fun, the Xbox 360 Arcade system features the industry-leading Family
> Settings, which allow parents to control what their kids are watching and
> playing - and we know how important that control is to families around the
> world."
>
> Karen Dodge, senior vice president and chief merchandising officer at Toys
> "R" Us, added, "We are excited to offer this new gaming experience to our
> customers - children and families - who can now enjoy the fun of Xbox 360
> together. Many of this holiday season's hottest items provide Internet
> connectivity, and with the online entertainment options available through
> Xbox LIVE�, Xbox 360 Arcade offers families a great mix of online content and
> traditional gaming in one console."
>
> The news of Xbox 360 Arcade comes as part of a broader initiative by
> Microsoft to bring the Xbox 360 experience to families everywhere. Microsoft
> also announced today that it is significantly expanding its catalog of high-
> and standard-definition family fun content that is available on demand direct
> to the consumer's living room. This includes the addition of everyone's
> favorite characters such as "Bugs Bunny" and "Daffy Duck" from Warner Bros.,
> which will be delivering the first ever "Looney Tunes" cartoons for download
> on Xbox 360, starting today. In addition, Nickelodeon is adding three new
> shows to its already large library of more than 300 episodes of TV shows on
> Xbox LIVE, Microsoft's premier online gaming and entertainment service, with
> the inclusion of "Blue's Clues," "The Backyardigans" and "iCarly."
> "SpongeBob SquarePants Underpants Slam(tm)" (THQ Inc.) and "SHREK-N-ROLL(tm)"
> (Activision) games will also be available exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade,
> the place to download games for Xbox 360 over Xbox LIVE, adding more fun for
> everyone in the family.
>
>
>
>
> Microsoft's commitment to family entertainment is complemented by the largest
> next-generation library of "E"- and "T"-rated games, more than 200 in all,
> available at retailers nationwide this holiday, including "BEE MOVIE(tm)
> GAME" (Activision), "Guitar Hero III�: Legends of Rock" (Activision),
> "Naruto: Rise of a Ninja" (UbiSoft Entertainment), "Scene It? Lights, Camera,
> Action" and "Viva Pi�ata�: Party Animals."
>
> About Xbox 360
>
> Xbox 360 is a superior video game and entertainment system delivering the
> best games, unique entertainment features and a unified online gaming network
> that revolve around gamers. Xbox 360 will have a portfolio of more than 300
> games and will be available in nearly 40 countries by the end of 2007. 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.
>
> #########
>
>
>
> * Prices herein are estimated retail prices. Actual retail prices may vary.

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Autumn leaves aren’t the only reason your October is about to get a lot more
colorful. The latest additions to the Wii Shop Channel deliver a brisk,
eye-pleasing mix of classic gameplay for fall. Dive into this pile of vibrant
titles for a timeless dose of fun and fantasy.Three new classic games go live
at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games to the Wii Shop Channel every
Monday. Wii™ owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii
Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop
Channel or at retail outlets.

This week’s new games are:

Lunar Pool® (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Lunar
Pool takes the historical game of billiards and reinvents it with a unique and
futuristic flair. The rules are simple: All you need to do is use your cue
stick to hit the white cue ball, causing it to hit the other numbered balls and
make them go into the pockets. You can enjoy nearly unlimited game play with 30
tables, two different ball arrangements, and the ability to change the degree
of friction on the table. You can play against a computer or another human
player, so try challenging someone once you’ve got the hang of the game.

Ninja JaJaMaru-kun® (NES®, 1-2 players, Rated E for Everyone, 600 Wii
Points): Take on the role of a ninja called JaJaMaru and rescue the captured
Princess Sakura from the evil Namazu Dayuu in this action-packed game,
previously unreleased outside of Japan. JaJaMaru must use his throwing stars to
defeat the monsters lurking in each of Dayuu’s many hideouts. JaJaMaru has to
be careful though, as each monster has its own unique weapon and method of
attacking. The only way for him to advance is to break the floor bricks above
him and move up and down between the levels of each round, defeating monsters
as he goes. To help him, broken bricks sometimes reveal items that JaJaMaru can
use to his advantage, possibly leading to the ultimate power-up: a ride on
Gamapakun, the giant frog. Throw in some bonus stages and you’ve got a game
with a style all its own.

Golden Axe™ III (Sega Genesis, 1-2 players, Rated E10+ for Fantasy Violence,
800 Wii Points): The once-peaceful kingdom so familiar to fans of the original
Golden Axe is under threat once again. The Prince of Darkness has stolen the
invaluable Golden Axe, taken over the kingdom and rendered its warriors
harmless with an evil curse. One warrior breaks free from the curse and must
defeat the prince and regain the Golden Axe to save the kingdom. In this one-
or two-player action game, play as a giant, a panther or a sword-wielding human
and fight your way to victory once again.

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*SAUSALITO, Calif., October 18, 2007* � Red Mile Entertainment, Inc.
(OTCBB: RDML), a worldwide developer and publisher of interactive
entertainment software, today announced it has engaged acclaimed
video-game industry writing and production talent to participate in the
development of Red Mile�s upcoming game based on multi-award-winning
creator/writer/artist Frank Miller�s /Sin City/ graphic novels and comic
books.

Accomplished game and animation veteran, Flint Dille, will spearhead the
design, scriptwriting, story generation, and overall production of �Sin
City: The Game� (working title). Dille has twenty years of game
experience to his name, and has twice won �Story of the Year� for his
work on /The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay /and on
/Dead to Rights/. In addition to his solid game and animation
credentials, Dille is also a close friend of /Sin City/ creator, Frank
Miller � enough so that Miller named the storyteller in his epic
/300/ �Dilios.� �Frank and I met during what I call our �professional
adolescence� when he was doing the /Dark Knight/ and I was doing the
/Transformers/ cartoon series,� says Dille, �and we�ve been great
friends ever since.� About the /Sin// City/ game, Dille adds, �Frank and
I have been having a party coming up with nasty stuff for the game. In
true /Sin// City/ fashion, some old characters will return, new
characters will appear and � without giving anything away � probably die
horribly. It�s great to be working with the Red Mile team on this
project: They clearly share Frank�s and my commitment to bringing a new
and true /Sin City/ to interactive life.�

Also participating in the game�s development is Union Entertainment.
Union�s video-game producer credits include /The Red Star/ and this
year�s breakout hit, /The Darkness/. Union generated the original /Sin//
City/ concept document that first got Miller interested in adapting
/Sin// City/ as a video game, and was central to setting up the /Sin//
City/ project with Red Mile. �/Sin City/ is one of a select few
properties that everyone agrees is ideal for video games,� said Union
President, Richard Leibowitz, �and we�re very proud to help make that
happen.�

�Flint and Union bring a deep and broad array of video game experience
to /Sin City/ and they�ll be integral to Red Mile�s creating a video
game experience that delivers on gamers� and fans� expectations,� said
Chester Aldridge, CEO of Red Mile Entertainment.

*About Red Mile Entertainment, Inc.*

Red Mile Entertainment, Inc. is a worldwide developer and publisher of
interactive-entertainment software. Red Mile creates, incubates, and
licenses premier intellectual properties and develops products for
console video-game systems, personal computers, and other interactive
entertainment platforms.

For more information about Red Mile Entertainment, Inc. please visit our
web site at www.redmileentertainment.com
.

*About Union Entertainment, LLC*

Union Entertainment is a talent management and production company
specializing in video games. Union has been instrumental in designing,
packaging, writing, developing, producing and/or providing talent for
video games that have collectively amassed more than half-a-billion
dollars at retail. As a producer, Union works with top talent to develop
and produce video games and feature films through major publishers and
studios. In addition, Union manages a roster of top console and handheld
video game development companies, writers, designers and artists. Union
enjoys unparalleled success in the marketplace, direct access to
publishers, extensive relationships with Hollywood studios and talent
agencies, and a firm grasp of the entertainment business.

* *

*About Flint Dille*

Flint Dille is one of the most experienced and respected creators in the
video game business today. Flint�s career includes extensive animation
writing, editing, and/or producing for hit television animation programs
including /G.I. Joe/, /Inhumanoids,/ /The Transformers/ animated
feature, and /American Tail II: Fievel Goes West/. Flint is also active
in the live-action feature film business, having co-created and
co-executive produced Dimension�s 2005 cult horror film, /Venom/ (aka
/Backwater/). Flint is consistently the game publisher�s �go-to� writer
for major franchise properties, including /Fantastic Four 2/, /The
Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay/, /Teen Titans/, /Dead to
Rights/, /Superman Returns/, /James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies, Soviet
Strike, Nuclear Strike/, and two upcoming projects official
announcements for which are pending. In addition to his full slate of
video game work, Flint has an original game/multimedia property in
development and a book about video game writing (co-written with his
frequent writing partner John Zuur Platten) that is expected to be
published within the year. Flint, grandson of the creator of /Buck
Rogers/, has also written for comics and worked for game company, TSR.

*About Frank Miller*

Frank Miller first came to prominence drawing and/or writing comics
properties such as /Spider-Man/, /Wolverine/, /Daredevil/, and/
Elektra/. Miller then created /Ro-nin/, a science-fiction samurai drama,
which is in development at Warner Bros. as a feature film. Miller then
wrote and illustrated the groundbreaking /Batman: The Dark Knight
Returns/ (an inspiration for the 1992 feature /Batman/), which not only
redefined the classic character, but also revitalized the comics
industry and reawoke audiences to the potentials of the medium. Miller
also wrote /Batman: Year One/, which was a basis for 2005's /Batman
Begins/.

Miller introduced his noir masterpiece /Sin// City/ in 1991, and it
became an instant sales success. To date, Miller has written and
illustrated seven /Sin// City/ graphic novels. In 2005, Miller
co-directed with Robert Rodriguez the feature film /Frank Miller's Sin
City/.

/300/, Warner Bros. feature-film adaptation of the award-winning graphic
novel by Miller (with Lynn Varley) smashed box-office records this year.

Miller is currently in preproduction of a feature-film adaptation of
Will Eisner's /The Spirit/, for which Miller has written the screenplay
and is set to direct.

�Red Mile Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved. RoverActive, the
RoverActive logo, Red Mile Entertainment and the Red Mile Entertainment
logo are trademarks of Red Mile Entertainment, Inc. Sin City and the Sin
City logo are trademarks of Frank Miller, Inc

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//*SAN FRANCISCO & LONDON *(October 18, 2007) � SEGA� of America, Inc.
and SEGA� Europe Ltd. today announced /SEGA Superstars� Tennis/,
starring some of the most recognized characters in the SEGA universe
playing on some of the most unusual courts and outrageous settings
imaginable. /SEGA Superstars Tennis/ will be released in early 2008 on
the PLAYSTATION�3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation�2 computer
entertainment system, the Xbox 360� video game and entertainment system,
the Wii� home video game system and Nintendo DS�.

/SEGA Superstars Tennis/ includes over 15 playable SEGA characters �
like Sonic The Hedgehog, AiAi from /Super Monkey Ball/ fame, Ulala of
/Space Channel 5/ and Amigo from /Samba De Amigo/, each of whom have
their own unique attributes, and superstar tennis skills. The game�s
arcade style matches are played out on courts based on environments from
Sega games of the past such as the lush tropics of Sonic�s Green Hill
Zone or the street fair fiesta of Amigo�s Carnival Park to name a few.
In addition, there are a host of cameos and other surprises for fans of
Sega games/./ Details on the gameplay modes and online play will be
revealed in the coming months.

�Sega Superstars Tennis delivers a fun and fresh new take on tennis,�
said Rick Naylor, Director of Marketing for SEGA of America. �From its
pick-up-and-play arcade action to its exciting roster of fan-favorite
characters and settings, Sega Superstars Tennis has something for everyone.�

SEGA Superstars Tennis is being developed by Sumo Digital Ltd., the
developer behind the acclaimed Virtua Tennis� series. For more
information please visit www.sega.com . For
press assets please visit: 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/usa
_

_ _

*_About SEGA� Europe Limited:_*

SEGA Europe Limited is the European Distribution arm of Tokyo,
Japan-based SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive
entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company 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
.

*_About SUMO Digital_*

Sumo Digital Ltd is a UK based game developer. Formed in 2003 Sumo
Digital is enjoying an enviable reputation for their recent work on
Handheld, Current and Next Gen Consoles. With over 100 staff, many of
whom have worked together for more than a decade, Sumo is licensed to
develop on all the leading gaming platforms; PLAYSTATION�3 computer
entertainment system, PlayStation�2 computer entertainment system and
PSP� (PlayStation�Portable) system Microsoft Xbox 360, Xbox, Nintendo DS
and Wii. Sumo Digital Ltd. has recently joined the Foundation 9
Entertainment, Inc. family of studios.Website is located at
www.sumo-digital.com

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DARKNESS WITHIN: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder
Official Demo Released for Horror Adventure Game Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft
Lighthouse logo

Toronto, Canada -- Oct 18, 2007 -- Leading publisher Lighthouse
Interactive and developer Zoetrope Interactive today released a demo for
their upcoming psychological horror Adventure game, Darkness Within: In
Pursuit of Loath Nolder. This chilling PC CD-ROM game, inspired by the
works of H.P. Lovecraft, will be releasing across Canada and the U.S.
this Halloween. Darkness Within is Windows� Vista(tm) compatible.

Onur Samli, CEO of Zoetrope Interactive said, /"The demo will take
players into a world where nothing is as it seems. Mysteries unfold and
players will toe the fine line between sanity and insanity. We wanted to
create an eerie game world where players will enjoy being frightened.
The story is also very involving - not only are players tasked with
finding fugitive murder suspect Loath Nolder, but they must also uncover
the astonishing truth behind their own character." /

/"Zoetrope created a suspenseful and intriguing adventure true to the
works of H.P. Lovecraft. Darkness Within stands out from other games in
its genre since it takes players deep into the dark recesses of the
human psyche exploring themes such as the occult, nightmares and
paranormal events,"/ said Erik Schreuder, CEO of Lighthouse Interactive.
/"The demo gives players a peek into the twisted world built around a
compelling murder investigation. Darkness Within will keep players
entertained for hours!"/

The demo features one of the frightening game settings players will
encounter during the murder investigation. Strange happenings will
occur, so players will need to keep their wits about them in order to
escape the terrifying darkness.

GAME SUMMARY:
As police detective Howard E. Loreid, players are tasked to solve the
murder of Clark Field, a wealthy man involved in the occult. At the top
of your list of suspects is Loath Nolder; a highly respected private
investigator who mysteriously abandoned his last case for reasons
unknown. Rumor had it that he ventured to several exotic places around
the world learning from tribe shamans and sorcerers. It remains a great
mystery as to why Loath Nolder disappeared so suddenly, resurfacing five
years later and resuming his investigations just as abruptly as he had
left them. Why does this venerated P.I. now sit on the other side of the
law?

Your seemingly routine investigation takes a dramatic twist as strange
and terrifying happenings begin to plague your psyche. You experience
lucid horrifying dreams and are tormented by paranormal happenings. Why
do days pass instead of hours when you sleep? What's real and what's
not? As you pursue fugitive murder suspect Loath Nolder, you must face
dire truths hidden deep within a haunting darkness and the recesses of
your mind.

FEATURES:

* *Built-in Hint System with 3 Difficulty Levels -* Players can
choose to play in Standard, Detective or Senior Detective modes.
* *Unique Inventory System - *Utilizing the 'thinking screen' allows
players to collect and examine items, and thoughts. Clues can also
be researched, combined or used.
* *Dynamic Puzzles and Features -* Traditional adventure game
puzzles are complimented by deciphering dreams and underlining
excerpts in documents to garner critical clues.
* *Enhanced Gameplay Experience - *The proprietary game engine
enables compelling special effects, stunning visuals, and dynamic
lighting and shading, in a panoramic first person game environment.
* *Eerie Gameplay Atmosphere - *An immersive experience is created
by a fascinating story, chilling real-time cut scenes, and
haunting music.

To download the demo (152 MB compressed), visit:
http://www.mmpr.com/MMPRFTP/FTP%20Folders/Lighthouse/

To find out more about Darkness Within: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder and
to keep up with the latest news on the game, visit
www.lighthouse-interactive.com and
www.zoetropeint.com/In/gameinfo.htm .

About Zoetrope Interactive

Leading game development company Zoeptrope Interactive is located in
Istanbul, Turkey. The team is dedicated to create quality games in which
gamers will enjoy a unique gaming experience. Zoetrope currently focuses
on their mysterious and suspenseful psychological thriller game Darkness
Within: In Pursuit of Loath Nolder. www.zoetropeint.com

About Lighthouse Interactive

Lighthouse Interactive is a fast growing publisher of interactive
entertainment with offices established in Toronto and Montreal, Canada,
Haarlem, The Netherlands and London, England. The company is focused on
bringing strong titles to the worldwide market in a wide array of genres
including: RPG, Simulation, Adventure, Action and Strategy. Staffed with
industry veterans, Lighthouse is the right choice for developers looking
to bring their products to a worldwide audience.
www.lighthouse-interactive.com

Press Release

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SEGA(r) of America, Inc. announced that the PC demo for SEGA Rally
> Revo(tm), the truly thrilling and highly anticipated racing game, is
> available for download. The demo features two quick race tracks taken
> from the colorful, steep sided Canyon environment and the gloriously
> muddy and downright dirty Tropical environment. Players will also have
> the choice of literally tearing up the deformable surfaces in either the
> Mitsubishi Evo IX FQ3 or the Subaru Impreza STi Spec C type RA.
>
>
>
> Now, go and try out the unique deformation technology which the SEGA
> Racing Studio has worked so hard to implement into SEGA Rally Revo. For
> the first time ever you can not only see the deformation in action, but
> feel every bump along the way.
>
>
>
> Demo Download Link:
>
> http://download.sega.com/u/srr/demoUS/PC_SEGA_Rally_Demo_US.zip

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Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit
Content-Id:
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First-Ever Episodic Game for the PLAYSTATION(r)3 Set to Deliver New,
> Innovative Comedy Adventure Experience for the Next Generation Audience
>
>
>
> New York, NY -- October 16, 2007 - Super-Ego Games today announces the
> company's first title, Rat Race, an original comedy adventure franchise.
> Rat Race will be the first-ever episodic game for the PLAYSTATION(r)3
> (PS3(tm)) and will be distributed as individual episodes that can be
> purchased and downloaded via the PlayStation(r)Network.
>
>
>
> "We believe that next-gen gamers seek new and innovative game titles,
> and Rat Race is just that," says Greg Easley, Co-founder and President,
> Super-Ego Games. "Rat Race represents a completely new take on the
> adventure genre, combining it with living, breathing characters and
> TV-quality comedy writing. The game delivers what action gamers want,
> but it also has funny, engaging dialogue, well-conceived characters and
> a comedic story that really hooks people."
>
>
>
> Rat Race drops players in the shoes of Tina Brooks, an ambitious brand
> manager at BiggCo, the massive consumer products company whose slogan,
> "Making the world a better place," couldn't be any more cynical. Tina
> quickly discovers that "business as usual" means an unending series of
> wacky, over-the-top, and wildly inappropriate situations. It's up to the
> player to outsmart, outwit, and sometime outrun co-workers and
> upper-management in a set of hilarious scenarios created by some of New
> York City's best comedy writers.
>
>
>
> Super-Ego Games has developed a series of innovative proprietary
> technologies to bring the Rat Race world to life. From dynamic
> conversations to non-linear scripting to advanced character AI systems,
> Rat Race represents a rethinking of how videos games are developed; with
> its distinct sense of story and character development, the title will
> help establish episodic games as a new form of interactive
> entertainment.
>
>
>
> Players will explore an array of highly detailed environments, from the
> cube farm to the animal testing lab to the happy hour bar. Through a
> combination of quick wit and action skills, players will diffuse
> political bombs and steer through outrageous situations scripted and
> voiced by NYC-based comedians with credits on Saturday Night Live,
> Chappelle's Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brian, Flight of the Concords,
> Ugly Betty, Sex in the City, My Name Is Earl, and more. Each episode
> will introduce new characters and locations, as well as new storylines
> and gameplay mechanics.
>
>
>
> Rat Race is currently in development by Super-Ego Games. The first
> episode is scheduled for release this Winter.
>
>
>
> About Super-Ego Games
>
> Super-Ego Games, founded in 2001, has offices in San Francisco and New
> York City, with 35 employees. The company's mission is to create a new
> generation of character-driven interactive entertainment products across
> game consoles, television and the Internet. Super-Ego is currently
> working on Rat Race, an original property that will be the first
> episodic game available for the Sony PLAYSTATION(r)3 Entertainment
> System. Rat Race will feature carefully conceived storylines and
> lifelike, fully interactive characters. Super-Ego has previously worked
> with Mattel and Activision prior to working with Sony. The official
> homepage of Super Ego is www.superegogames.com
> .

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SAN FRANCISCO ? October 16, 2007 ? Today Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game publishers, announced the score for the highly anticipated Assassin's Creed(TM) video game is being composed by British Academy Award��?winner Jesper Kyd. Players will become truly immersed into the mindset of Altair, the game's main character, and the rich environments of the game through Jesper's thematic score. The combination of epic orchestral compositions with acoustic, percussion and vocal performances delivers a deeply spiritual aesthetic with Hollywood flair. The rich and melodic palette, created exclusively for Assassin's Creed, will be discovered by players worldwide this November.

"We listened to many composers before finding the right person for Assassin's Creed.
"Jesper Kyd turned out to be the perfect match for the title because he is able to create epic historical pieces fused with both traditional medieval instruments and modern synth sounds,? shared Jade Raymond, producer of Assassin's Creed. "For Assassin's Creed we wanted the score to capture the gruesome atmosphere of medieval warfare but also be edgy and contemporary. Jesper not only achieved this balance but also underlined the changes in gameplay and pacing in a way that immerses the player even further into the
Assassin's Creed experience.?

While the graphical beauty and detail of Assassin's Creed is quite evident visually, the music takes on the same level of precision and attention. Each setting within the game has its own theme and distinct musical identity, ranging from the tragedy-stricken city of Acre to the proud stoic stronghold of Damascus to the powerfully spiritual and multicultural capital of Jerusalem.

"I was inspired by the deep and engaging world of Assassin's Creed and working with the visionary team at Ubisoft Montreal was a fantastic experience,? said Jesper Kyd. "It was truly refreshing to be given so much creative freedom for such a high-profile blockbuster title and I believe we took it to the max.?

In such instances as the surreal and hypnotic compositions that accentuate the Assassin's approach to his target, Kyd instilled his immersive style and film scoring techniques in Altair's interior meditation and stealth modes, while also capturing the action, combat and escape sequences with measured tone that crescendos into a fast-paced fervor.

About Assassin's Creed
The game is set in 1191 AD, when the Third Crusade was tearing the Holy Land apart. Shrouded in secrecy and feared for their ruthlessness, the Assassins intend to stop the hostilities by suppressing both sides of the conflict. Players will assume the role of the main character, Altair, and will have the power to throw their immediate environment into chaos and truly experience the art of a master assassin.

In 2006, Assassin's Creed received the Game Critics Award: Best of E3 2006 for "Best Action-Adventure Game? and swept the "Best PS3 Game? category across numerous video game websites.*

Assassin's Creed will be available in North America at the MSRP of $59.99 with the Limited Edition priced at $69.99 ? Assassin's Creed is rated "M? for Mature by the ESRB. For more information, please visit www.assassinscreed.com.

*1UP "Best PS3 Game,? GameSpot "Best PLAYSTATION 3 Editors' Choice Winner,? GameSpy "Best of E3 PS3 Game of the Show,? Games Radar "Best of E3 PLAYSTATION 3,? GameTrailers "Best of Show,? IGN "Best PS3 Game of the Show?

About Ubisoft:
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified lineup of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has offices in 21 countries and sales in more than 50 countries around the globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers. Ubisoft generated sales of 680 million Euros for the 2006-07 fiscal year. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.

� 2007 Ubisoft Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. Assassin's Creed, Ubisoft, Ubi.com, and the Ubisoft logo are trademarks of Ubisoft Entertainment in the U.S. and/or other countries. "PlayStation?, "PLAYSTATION?, and "PS? Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

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_HER INTERACTIVE TEAMS WITH THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SE LOUISIANA_

_IN CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM_

_Program Heralds the Launch of Newest Nancy Drew PC Game_

_�Nancy Drew^� : Legend of the Crystal Skull�_

BELLEVUE, WA, October 16, 2007 � With *Nancy Drew*^� *: Legend of the
Crystal Skull,* the 17^th offering from its award-winning series hitting
retail shelves this week, Her Interactive today announced it is
partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana to help
support the six clubs located throughout southeast Louisiana, an area
still dealing with the deleterious effects of Hurricane Katrina.

As part of the program, each individual club will receive a complete
library of Her Interactive Nancy Drew PC games as well as financial
support for the overall program. Her Interactive�s latest release,
*Nancy Drew*^� *: Legend of the Crystal Skull* takes place in �America�s
Most Interesting City,� New Orleans.

�With the city of New Orleans as the backdrop for *Nancy Drew*^� *:
Legend of the Crystal Skull*, we feel this is an excellent opportunity
to support one of the finest organizations for young people in an area
that is still in need of assistance,� said Megan Gaiser, President and
CEO of Her Interactive.

Adds Johnny DiBartolo, President of the Boys and Girls Clubs of
Southeast Louisiana: �We are thrilled to have such a well-regarded
company as Her Interactive support the wonderful computer programs of
the Boys & Girls Clubs. Their donation will assist in re-establishing
our clubs and giving youths a safe place to congregate.�

Rated �E� for Everyone, *Nancy Drew: Legend of the Crystal Skull* finds
the teen super sleuth in the Big Easy on the case to find out what
happened to Bruno Bolet. Bolet owned a legendary crystal skull that
allegedly protected him from any natural causes of death.

So what happened? Was he murdered? In a mystery so big that it takes two
characters to solve, *Nancy Drew*^� *: Legend of the Crystal Skull
*allows players to play as both Nancy and Bess as they explore a
mysterious mansion, investigate a swampy cemetery, and infiltrate a
secret society. Players should take chances when deciphering cryptic
clues, as the game automatically returns the player to a point in the
game before a fatal decision, allowing players to discover tiny
�treasures� and hidden rooms.

*About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana*

Companies and individuals looking to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of
Southeast Louisiana are encouraged to contact Mr. John DiBartolo,
President of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana at
504-566-0707 or jdibartolo@bgcsela.org .

*About Nancy Drew*

Nancy Drew debuted in 1930 and is still going strong in 2007. She is a
smart, independent, gutsy and resourceful teen detective who can crack
even the toughest case. Publishing in 22 languages and with more than
100 million copies in print worldwide, Nancy Drew has engaged readers
and served as a role model globally for generations.

*About Her Interactive*

Her Interactive is the pioneer of high quality fun and inspiring
interactive entertainment targeted to female play preferences. The
company designs, develops and publishes high-quality, award-winning
mystery adventure games that engage and empower players. More
information about the company and the Nancy Drew games can be found at
www.HerInteractive.com .

Copyright 2007 Her Interactive, Inc. All rights reserved. Nancy Drew is
a registered trademark of Simon & Schuster, Inc.

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TNA Bound For Glory
Gwinett Center, Duluth GA
10/14/07

As part of Midway’s weekend of TNA they took about 50 journalists to witness first hand the excitement of a live TNA professional wrestling event. Although the action was clearly staged (many times I saw the participants laughing or counting with each other to make sure that the timing of the stunts was correct), it was thrilling. It was like a Broadway show, but one based on violence and acrobatics. And the crowd loved it. They ate up every minute of it, every 2 and a half count, every act of bravado, and every broken chair.

If you'd like to view the slideshow click here.

My first thoughts were, “Wow, this looks really fake.” “They’re not even hitting each other.” “This isn’t wrestling.” “The game is more real than the event because the outcome is uncertain.”

And then I left our corporate box and went down into the crowd. The enthusiasm was infectious. It wasn’t about fake fight anymore; it was about an intricately choreographed dance and controlled violence between personalities. Who cares if it was fake? It was fun and fairly clean and yes, exciting.

If you'd like to view the slideshow click here.

I sure as hell roared with approval when my buddy Samoan Joe (a future post will include an interview with him) dove through the ropes to tackle his opponent out on the arena floor. I laughed when it took three “normal” females to throw an absolute monster named Kong out of the ring. She was indeed a monster, probably bigger than most NFL linemen.

This brings me to a greater understanding of professional wrestling. It’s a show and the performers are talented. The writing is hackneyed, banal, and predictable. The actors portray strong personalities and the stunts they do look pretty difficult to pull off to me. There was a lot of aerial combat. I’d imagine that a person could get hurt pretty badly if they screwed one of those stunts up. And if your opponent screwed something up it could probably even kill you; being off by a few inches on a piledriver would definitely crack your skull or break your neck.

These guys are not always so big. As you can see from the photos, I might even be considered in the same ballpark size and fitness of the smaller ones. This is, of course, a joke. When I wrestled I was a lean 140 and I’m about 60 lbs heavier than that now. The thing is that these guys must be tough as nails (I may have been tough as nails as a teenager, but at 37 I’m far from it). They get smacked around and bash into things all day every day. It can’t be all that much fun getting thrown out of the ring or having a 250lb guy land on you. Sure, the wrestling isn’t real and I bet that a very good high school heavy-weight could take almost all of them in a straight on wrestling match. But, first of all, that’s not what it’s about and, second of all, I really have to admire grown men who can participate in something this physically demanding and at the same time exhibit so much charisma.

If you'd like to view the slideshow click here.

How do wrestlers measure up against other athletes? The first thing that comes to mind is that I’m pretty sure if Scott Stevens unloaded on any of them they probably wouldn’t get up. They couldn’t juke and run down a football field either. They probably couldn’t beat Tiger Woods in golf, but if he stepped into the ring he might never walk again. I’m not so sure professional wrestling is a sport. It is a cultural phenomenon, an intricately choreographed display of violence in which some really tough guys hold the crowd in the palm of their hand and under the spell of their charisma. It is a spectacle, and a spectacle of the best kind – a fun one!

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Bioshock
Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Irrational Games
Rated M for Mature
Rating: 5 out of 5

Review by Matt Congdon

There are a few rare games out there that force you to play them; once you lay down that cash, you're sucked in until you finish. Sure, many games have great stories (Final Fantasy X), and some have great game play (God of War), but few combine both into something so special that you just can't quit. One such title this year that shouldn’t be missed any adult gamer looking for a bit of adventure.. The game creates an intriguing story, but it’s the gameplay that makes the story come alive. Too many games these days have stories that aren't connected with the actual gameplay, but rather just feature boring cut scene movies--which the typical ADD gamer (such as myself) doesn’t really like to sit through. Bioshock’s story is delivered mostly through audio, which is transmitted to you via radio, so you're listening to the story while shooting, dismembering and electrocuting baddies through Bioshock’s Levels.

The story of Bioshock was so intriguing to me that when I was getting an important message from Atlas concerning his family, I found myself telling my roommates to shut the hell up. The only cut scene in the game is found right at the beginning when your plane crashes. The moment you surface, your character gasps: I did the same, though I was gasping at the amazing water and fire effects. Even before entering Rapture (the main setting), you are nervously anticipating what’s to come.

In a nutshell, the story behind the game is that a somewhat mad man created an underwater civilization where rich people, crazy artists, and mad scientists can live in peace. Of course, things go wrong as people start to crave a substance called adam, which provides them with ungodly powers. Soon this whole “world” starts to freak for this substance adam. Common people follow no real rules to society and become mindless killing machines known to us merely as splicers. Girls known to us only as "little sisters" use a special needle-like tool to take the adam straight from victims' heart. Big Daddies protect the little sisters; they look like 1950’s navy divers with big suits and huge drills. They don’t attack without being provoked, thankfully, but you will not be able to resist the urge to attack them. You'll be craving adam soon enough, no better then a crazed splicer. The Big Daddy fights present a challenge and a chance to get creative. After fights you are given the chance to harvest the little sisters or rescue them, these decisions play out in the end of the game and give the game some definite replay value. Bioshock’s variety of plasmids is where a lot of the games strength lies. There are so many weapons, powers, and other things you can use in Bioshock that no fight is ever the same.

As for weapons and power (called plasmids in Bioshock), they're a blast to use. All the guns in the game have a cool 1940’s feel to them and are pretty powerful in the beginning. The first gun you get is the pistol, and it has some nice stopping power at short range. Head shots can turn splicer heads into red Kool-Aid pretty easily. The shotgun, my weapon of choice for taking down those nasty splicers, has a nice spread of fire. All guns can be upgraded, and all can use three different kinds of ammo. The shotguns exploding 00 buck is hard to come by but nasty fun to use. The pistol’s anti-personnel ammo can cut up those splicers fairly easily. The difficulty with Bioshock lies in its resource management. You must plan how to use what equipment as effectively but more importantly efficiently as you can. Plasmids are some fun good fun, too. My personal favorites are winter blast, swarm of bees, and telekinesis. Using them together creatively is the best. I like to set my target on fire, watch him try to jump into water, then send an electricity blast through the water. Or light a table on fire, then chuck it at someone. Or how about freezing your enemy, surrounding him with mines and gas tanks, then when they thaw out, blow em up. Killing really shouldn’t be this fun.

There isn't much more I can tell you about Bioshock that isn't a spoiler, but I can tell you that it feels like you’re in rapture. Bioshock defines next generation gaming. Its artistic graphics and art-deco style cannot be compared to most games. The audio is what really makes the game come alive. The ambient sounds and old music are what make you feel in game. Every piano key plink and bullet ricochet feels and sounds appropriate. The money you spent on your Xbox 360 or 4 thousand dollar gaming computer will certainly feel justified, at least while your playing. Bioshock is well-designed game that most adventure, horror, fps, and action fans will appreciate. The game isn’t meant just to be played, but also to be experienced. If your lucky enough to read Maxims review(or should I say unlucky) they truly disgraced the game with a 3/5 rating. No offense to Maxim fans but maybe keep the meat-heads out of the games department. As a non steroid user I feel this is a possibility for game of the year. [I think it’s not that they’re meatheads, it’s that they don’t play the games and just rate the press releases and trailers. MDS] Currently I don’t believe there to be a better single person console shooter experience for any system, Bioshock is an experience not to be missed. A great game.

Posted by Matt Sarrel at 6:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

This week marks the first appearance of a CD-ROM game for the TurboGrafx16 on
Virtual Console™. Take control of the Hunting Dog ship and battle deadly
Obbellon fighters in the classic horizontal sci-fi shooter, Gate of Thunder. If
shooting’s not your thing, you can go out and save the world from evil demons
or a power-hungry general in this week’s other offerings that bolster the Wii
Shop Channel’s catalog of action-adventure and real-time strategy games.

Three new classic games go live at 9 a.m. Pacific time. Nintendo adds new games
to the Wii Shop Channel every Monday. Wii™ owners with a high-speed Internet
connection can redeem Wii Points™ to download the games. Wii Points can be
purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week’s new games
are:

Ninja Gaiden II™: The Dark Sword of Chaos (NES®, 1 player, rated E for
Everyone – Mild Violence, 500 Wii Points): In Ninja Gaiden II: The Dark Sword
of Chaos, a new villain, Ashtar, is revealed. Take on the role of Ryu Hayabusa
and rescue Irene Lew, a former CIA agent, from Ashtar. Destroy the Sword of
Chaos, a weapon of great power forged from the bone of a demon. Use techniques
such as the Fire Wheel or the Windmill Throwing Star and attack while holding
on to walls and ladders. Use the most innovative technique of all – the
ability to create Shadow Clones, orange shadow versions of Ryu that will
constantly follow him, repeating previous actions (moving or attacking) in a
delayed cycle. Once again defeat henchmen, creatures and bosses with new
fighting techniques and even more weapons as you progress through multiple
stages on your way to destroying Ashtar, Jaquio and the Realm of Chaos.

Metal Marines® (Super NES®, 1 player, rated E for Everyone – Fantasy
Violence, 800 Wii Points): Set in the near future, most of Earth’s land has
been disintegrated in the chaos of the Anti-matter War. This real-time strategy
game portrays the Colonies’ Allied Force – the Metal Marines – in their
epic struggle agai