E3 2008

E308: Namco Museum Virtual Arcade coming to Xbox 360

Dale — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 02:29:26 -0400

The Ultimate Collection of Arcade Hits Comes Home

Santa Clara, Calif., (July 15, 2008) – Leading video games developer and publisher NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., announced today that Namco Museum™: Virtual Arcade (*working title) will be available this fall for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. More than 30 classic Namco hits and new retro revivals come together for the ultimate arcade collection.

“Namco Museum: Virtual Arcade offers more than 25 years of classic Namco arcade hits in one convenient package,” said Todd Thorson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at NAMCO BANDAI Games America. “Gamers of all generations will enjoy the addicting quality of these timeless arcade games and exciting new updates.”

Namco Museum: Virtual Arcade features hit games from NAMCO BANDAI Games' Xbox LIVE® Arcade for Xbox 360 library including Ms. Pac-Man®, Galaga®, Dig Dug®, Pac-Man® Championship Edition™ and Mr. Driller® Online. Each Xbox LIVE enabled game features unique online leaderboards and artwork mimicking their original arcade cabinets. Post your high score online to see where you rank against the rest of the world. In addition to the Xbox LIVE Arcade titles, Namco Museum: Virtual Arcade features over 20 additional favorites. Play through newly arranged versions of Dig Dug, Pac-Man and Galaga never before seen on a home console, as well as arcade perfect renditions of Motos®, Pole Position®, Rolling Thunder®, and Galaga® '88, just to name a few.

More information about Pac-Man Championship Edition and Mr. Driller Online:

Pac-Man Championship Edition brings the first new set of mazes to the Pac-Man universe in over 26 years with funky retro neon graphics and innovative rules. Created exclusively for the Xbox 360 by Pac-Man's original creator, Toru Iwatani, Pac-Man Championship Edition was met with critical acclaim when it was released in the summer of 2007 for Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360.

Mr. Driller Online takes the fun and fast paced gameplay of Mr. Driller and brings it online! Compete against friends in exciting multiplayer matches as you drill deep down into a vast well combining same colored blocks for big combos. The player with the highest score after three minutes wins the round.

Also included in Namco Museum: Virtual Arcade:

Pac-Man – Released in 1980

Guide PAC-MAN though the original arcade classic. Avoid ghosts as you chomp away at pellets to clear each stage. Find the power pellets to turn the tables on the ensuing ghosts and take a bite out of them.

Galaga – Released in 1981

Pilot an advanced space fighter and destroy an alien invasion. Shoot through their formations as they descend upon your ship.

Galaxian® – Released in 1979

Defeat wave after wave of dragonfly-like enemies through this precursor to Galaga.

Dig Dug - Released in 1982

Dig out tunnels and dislodge heavy rocks to defeat nefarious enemies. If all else fails, use your pump to inflate and blow up tricky monsters. The round is over when all the enemies have been destroyed.

Xevious® - Released in 1982

This classic arcade shoot ‘em up enlists players to target air and ground units as they fight their way enemy territory.

Pole Position – Released in 1982

Take first place in the premiere arcade racing classic.

And much more!

For more information about Namco Museum: Virtual Arcade, please visit: http://www.namcobandaigames.com/

E308: Tales of Vesperia Demo Available

Dale — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 02:25:14 -0400

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (July 15, 2008) – NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. today announced that as a part of Microsoft’s E3 “Bringing it Home” campaign, a playable demo for the upcoming role-playing game Tales of Vesperia™ is now available for download from the Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Giving gamers a sample of the renowned Tales series’ Xbox 360 debut, the demo is free to all Xbox LIVE Silver and Gold account users.

Highlighting the 10th anniversary of the Tales series in North America, Tales of Vesperia takes the series into the HD era with cel-shaded graphics that rival traditional hand-drawn animation and an all-new quest of heroic proportions. New features as multi-stage Over Limit, Burst Artes and Fatal Strikes add new strategy and action to the Tales series' signature real-time battles as players direct their whole party to victory. Tales of Vesperia will be the first game in the history of the Tales series to launch in Japan and North America within the same month.

The newly released Tales of Vesperia demo features a full dungeon for players to explore, packed with vicious enemies and highlighted by an encounter with a massive boss opponent. Up to four players can participate in the demo’s battles on a single Xbox 360, experiencing the unique attributes of each character in the party.

Tales of Vesperia for Xbox 360 will be available in stores on August 26, and is rated “T” for Teen by the ESRB. For more information on the Tales series, please visit HYPERLINK "http://www.namcobandaigames.com" www.namcobandaigames.com.

E308: New Digimon Game for DS

Dale — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 02:22:07 -0400

New Digimon Adventure Goes Gold for Nintendo DS™

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (July 15, 2008) – Leading video games publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., announced today that Digimon World® Championship has gone gold for the Nintendo DS™. Intense action abounds in a new adventure based on the hit animated series that allows players to hunt, capture, and train their own Digimon for competition in a legendary tournament. Over 200 different Digimon can be found in their natural wild habitats, and once trained to their peak fighting form, they can battle for the Digimon World Championship.

“NAMCO BANDAI Games is thrilled to deliver the ultimate Digimon experience,” said Todd Thorson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. "Players will be drawn to the imaginative franchise as they take complete control over the development of their Digimon while experiencing epic battles and intense gameplay."

Digimon Tamers will explore the entire Digital World to capture any of the over 200 of wild Digimon using a variety of hunting traps and gear. Once in their possession, players can train their Digimon to boost specific abilities, preparing them to compete in over 50 different Title matches. Tamer skills will determine the success of your Digimon squad as players use cunning and creativity to properly enhance the skills needed to reign supreme. Tamers can further test their skills and training by challenging friends to multiplayer battle action using Nintendo® Wi-Fi Connection. Hunting rare Digimon, in combination with Training, leads to victory over all in the Digimon World Championship!

Episode 50: E308 and more

Dale — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 01:40:29 -0400

After much frustration getting her iPod Touch updated with the iPhone 2.0 software, Teresa and Dale take a look at the new offerings at the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2008.

Toy News:

SeaPals, the newest plush online world for kids

Video Game News and Reviews:

Reviews
Feedback

Vote for us at the Podcast Peer Awards
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

E308: Chicken Hunter Announced for Wii

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:55:18 -0400

Sounds like a short diversion at best, but enough comedy will make it a decent game. We'll see.

LOS ANGELES, July 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Conspiracy Entertainment (BULLETIN BOARD: CPYE) , a developer, publisher and marketer of interactive entertainment software in North America and Western Europe, announced today that it has entered into an agreement with phenomedia publishing gmbh, one of Europe's leading developers of casual interactive entertainment software, to distribute the character-driven Jump'n Run game "Chicken Hunter" for the Nintendo Wii(TM) platform.

Marco Huesges, Executive Vice President of Conspiracy Entertainment, said, "phenomedia is internationally renowned for successfully converting well-known movie and music licenses. 'Chicken Hunter' has a huge following in Europe, and we are excited to represent the franchise to North American audiences. 'Chicken Hunter' has enjoyed strong market acceptance on the Nintendo DS platform, and now is ready for play on the Wii. The game on the Wii provides enhanced functionality, including use of the revolutionary motion-sensitive remote controller as well as the unique Nunchuk, for realistic, action-packed entertainment."

Keith Tanaka, CFO of Conspiracy Entertainment, said, "We're excited to bring another title to market for the Nintendo Wii. We are continuing to release titles that appeal to a broad audience and on multiple platforms to create steady sales growth quarter-over-quarter in 2008."

Helge Borgarts, phenomedia publishing gmbh's CEO, is very satisfied with the new game, having said, "For Moorhuhn's first appearance on the Nintendo Wii, we are glad to announce major improvements regarding gameplay and the general look and feel of the game compared to earlier Chicken Hunter games. This a fresh concept for a famous casual icon combined with one of the best casual platforms on the console market -- it is bound to have a significant impact."

About Chicken Hunter (Wii)

Chicken Hunter for the Nintendo Wii is a 3D Jump'n Run played from a 3rd person perspective. The main character carries two tools: A wooden mallet that can be used to hammer down enemies on the ground and a pumpkin gun that rapidly fires pumpkin seeds at airborne attackers. In the Jump'n Run levels in which the character runs, jumps, hammers and shoots alternate with levels in which the chicken rides piggyback on other characters of the Chicken Hunter universe. The gameplay of the ride sequences will differ significantly from the Jump'n Run sequences ensuring a great variety of different challenges throughout the whole game.

Features:

-- 3D Jump'n Run featuring the character from 'Chicken Hunter' with 4 different game modes

-- Singleplayer Campaign Mode including classical Jump'n Run sequences as well as piggyback rides on a frog, a turtle and a ram

-- 2-player split screen multiplayer races

E308: Atari takes on Cooking Mama with the help of Jamie Oliver

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:39:12 -0400

It's Cooking Mama with actual recipes from a real recipe book and some cool new features. This should be interesting.

Atari to Bring Renowned Cook Jamie Oliver and His Delicious, Creative Cooking to Nintendo DS in October 2008 -

NEW YORK, July 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Atari serves up a treat with the announcement of What's Cooking? with Jamie Oliver, the first video game to feature international cooking star Jamie Oliver and his delicious, world-renowned recipes, scheduled for release exclusively on Nintendo DS(TM) for Christmas 2008. What's Cooking? with Jamie Oliver walks players through virtual and real-life cooking situations, from shopping to chopping, dressing the dish to serving up meals. The portability of Nintendo DS means Jamie Oliver is with you every step of the way to offer help and inspiration at the supermarket, in the kitchen, on the barbecue or wherever you feel like cooking up a storm.

Try your hand at some delicious real cooking with the interactive cookbook, stuffed with 100 original Jamie Oliver recipes, mouth-watering photography by David Loftus of the quality we've come to expect from Jamie's books, and featuring voice recognition leaving hands free to concentrate on the cooking. The interactive shopping list automatically saves ingredients from chosen recipes (either Jamie Oliver's or your own creations) and organises them by food type making trips to the supermarket a breeze. You can add any other items you want to the list using the keypad or text recognition.

In the spirit of Jamie Oliver's books and TV shows, the creative mode encourages players to use hundreds of hand-picked ingredients to create their own dishes. Up to 100 of your own unique recipes can be saved on the Nintendo DS to be recreated in the kitchen later and shared with friends and family using the Nintendo(R) Wi-Fi Connection.

The cooking games offer fun for everyone with a series of recipe challenges using the stylus to chop, stir and serve in a variety of virtual real-time 3D kitchen settings. Challenge your friends and family to a cook-off or beat the clock, all the while keeping quality and taste in mind on your way to becoming a top chef.

"I really want to get as many people as I can cooking simple, tasty food, so I'm really excited about bringing a book's worth of my recipes to a game for the first time," said Jamie Oliver. "You can cook my recipes for real at home or in the game's 3D kitchens, but what's brilliant is that you can come up with your own recipes then share them with your mates and family over wi-fi. Lovely."

"What's Cooking? with Jamie Oliver will be the most complete cooking game and it's great to have Jamie Oliver on board with his wholesome recipes and passion for life," said Cyril Voiron, VP Brand Management, Worldwide Publishing, Atari. "What's Cooking? with Jamie Oliver is a great game for Nintendo DS as it appeals to players of all ages within the family, be it the everyday adult cook or the budding child chef, which is a perfect fit with Nintendo's phenomenal DS audience."

What's Cooking? with Jamie Oliver is scheduled for release across North America in October 2008. For information on Jamie Oliver, please visit his official website at www.jamieoliver.com.

E308: Ener-G Sports Video Games for Girls

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:35:26 -0400

Another sorely neglected video game genre: girls' sports games:

New Girls' Sports Brand Brings Team Spirit to Nintendo DS(TM)

LOS ANGELES – July 15, 2008 – Today at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, Ubisoft unveiled its all-new Ener-G series of video games for the North American market. Created for girls ages 6 to 14, the first games in the Ener-G series feature dancing, gymnastics and horse riding, three fun and physical activities that emphasize social interaction.

The No. 1 independent publisher for Nintendo DS, as well as the industry leader in the 'tween girl category, Ubisoft's foray into the girls' sports market supports the company's strategic expansion of its casual Games for Everyone division.

"In 2007, the market for video game software for girls exploded, and Ubisoft's Imagine(TM) and Petz® video game series for Nintendo DS were huge drivers of that success,” said Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing, North America, at Ubisoft. "This year, Ubisoft is furthering its leadership in the category with the launch of Ener-G, a new girls' sports brand dedicated to providing 'tweens with an immersive way to play sports, socialize and network with their friends. Now, girls will have more ways to play than ever before.”

Ener-G(TM) Dance Squad puts girls in the role of choreographer, letting them create their own routines and compete alone or with a team.

In Ener-G(TM) Gym Rockets, girls get the chance to live the life of a young gymnast training her way through competitions in hopes of winning a gold medal at the Olympics.

Fulfilling every little girl's dream of having a pony, Ener-G(TM) Horse Riders lets players create their perfect equine farm, complete with wild horses that can be tamed, trained and ridden.

With an expected rating of E for Everyone by the ESRB, the first three Ener-G titles will be available in the U.S. this October.

E308: My SAT Coach Announced

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:32:54 -0400

Playing video games will help your child get into college! Yeah!

LOS ANGELES — July 15, 2008 — Today at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, Ubisoft announced that it will publish My SAT Coach with The Princeton Review for the Nintendo DS(TM) system. Developed in Ubisoft's Montreal studio and in partnership with The Princeton Review, the video game will help students prepare for the SAT exams by presenting timed drills and other activities in mini-games where game scores are tracked and the player is given recommendations on how to improve testing performance. My SAT Coach with The Princeton Review will include more than 2,000 practice questions and two full length practice exams.

"Studying for the SAT is an arduous process,” said Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Ubisoft North America. "Ubisoft is excited to be partnering with The Princeton Review to create My SAT Coach, a game that makes the whole process of preparing engaging and fun.”

"We've been successfully preparing students for the SAT for over twenty years,” said Robert Franek, Vice President and Publisher at The Princeton Review. "My SAT Coach with The Princeton Review is exciting because it combines proven Princeton Review techniques with the speed and convenience of the Nintendo DS platform.”

My SAT Coach with The Princeton Review will be available in the U.S. this fall.

The "My Coach” brand, part of Ubisoft's Games for Everyone division, consists of a series of games that encourages players to improve themselves while being entertained at the same time. Other titles in the brand include: My Word Coach for a stronger vocabulary, My Spanish Coach and My French Coach for foreign language development and My Weight Loss Coach for a healthier lifestyle.

E308: More Imagine Series games for girls coming to Wii and DS

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:30:33 -0400

It's good to see games for girls besides Barbie and Bratz.

LOS ANGELES – JULY 15, 2008 – Today at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, Ubisoft announced it will launch brand new games from the Imagine(TM) series for girls, ages 6 to 14 years old. Imagine Movie Star (worldwide), Imagine Fashion Designer New York (North America), Imagine Babysitters (North America), and Imagine Wedding Designer (North America) all for the Nintendo DS(TM) system, are scheduled to ship in Holiday 2008. These are in addition to the newly announced titles, My Secret World by Imagine, Imagine Teacher and Imagine Party Babyz®, that are scheduled to ship in the fall.

The Imagine series is the first ever brand of games dedicated to girls where they can play as a fashion designer, rock star, movie star, teacher and more. The Imagine series made its debut at retail stores in October 2007, and to date the Imagine sales have exceeded expectations with more than four million units sold worldwide. There are currently six Imagine games available at retail stores.

Imagine Movie Star (Nintendo DS, available worldwide) lets the player experience all the glamour and fun of being a celebrity! Maintain your A-list celebrity status and get invited to fabulous parties, hang out with other celebrities and get spotted at the hottest night clubs or on a dream date. Walk the red carpet in the trendiest outfits and smile for the paparazzi!

In Imagine Fashion Designer New York (Nintendo DS, available in North America) girls can play as a young fashion designer starting a career in a famous fashion agency in New York City. Discover the glamorous world of fashion and create trendy designs to become the hippest fashion designer ever.

Imagine Babysitters (Nintendo DS, available in North America) allows the player to become a young babysitter and take care of the cutest and most adorable babies. Improve your babysitting skills and develop a nurturing and loving relationship with your baby.

In Imagine Wedding Designer (Nintendo DS, available in North America) girls can play the role of a wedding planner and create the perfect wedding for the bride. Choose the bride's dress, veil and bouquet, design the wedding invitation, and select the location, music and more! But be ready to react quickly if your bride is disappointed, you might face some unexpected events during the ceremony!

In Imagine Fashion Party (Nintendo Wii, available in North America) players can star in a TV show and compete in a series of challenges to show the world that you are the best fashion designer! Use the Wii Remote(TM) and Nunchuk(TM) as scissors, hair brushes, makeup applicator or other styling and design tools.

My Secret World by Imagine (Nintendo DS, August 2008) allows young girls to express themselves in a fully customizable diary. They'll learn more about their own personality with dozens of fun quizzes. They can socialize with friends via Nintendo Wi-Fi connection, trade customization items, share secrets and play mini-games together.

Imagine Teacher (Nintendo DS, August 2008) allows players to become a teacher at a brand new school. Teach your class a variety of subjects and increase your students' knowledge. Become a successful teacher, recruit new students and develop your school into one of the very best.

In Imagine Party Babyz (Nintendo Wii, October 2008) girls can play as a babysitter and take care of adorable babies. Entertain the babies through hilarious mini-games such as swings, tricycle races, monster chases in babies' dreams, dancing and soap bubbles contests.

For more information on Imagine, please visit http://imagine.us.ubi.com

E308: The Price is Right Video Game Announced and win a Wii prize package or appear on TPiR Live

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:23:48 -0400

Come on down, but you don't get to keep the showcase.

The Longest-Running Game Show in Television History Arrives on Wii(TM), Nintendo DS(TM), PC and Mac®.

SAN FRANCISCO – July 15, 2008 – Today Ubisoft announced that it has partnered with FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) to publish THE PRICE IS RIGHT(TM) for the Wii(TM) home video game system from Nintendo, the Nintendo DS(TM) system, PC, and Mac®. Developed by Ludia and FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME), The Price is Right video game is based on the longest running game show in television history, now in its 35th season. Like the contestants on the game show, players will be able to bid on products, play the famous pricing games, and spin the Big Wheel for the chance to win prizes in the Showcase Showdown.

In conjunction with the video game launch, Ubisoft has also created THE PRICE IS RIGHT video game website www.thepriceisrightvideogame.com, so website visitors can sample the video game before it is available at retail stores. Visitors can also play "Punch-A-Bunch” online for the chance to win prizes such as a Wii prize pack and official merchandise. The winner of the grand prize will play "Plinko” at THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE! show in Las Vegas for up to $5,000. More games will be available soon for website visitors to play.

THE PRICE IS RIGHT video game will feature a single- and multiplayer mode for up to four players. Many of the classic pricing challenges that viewers have known and loved for generations, such as "Plinko,” "Three Strikes,” "Hole in One,” and "Cliffhanger,” will also be in the game. The Wii version will have specialized controls that allow players to spin the Big Wheel, putt through "Hole In One,” or take a swing at "Punch-A-Bunch.” The voice of announcer Rich Fields, actual sounds and music from the show, and classic video footage will ensure an authentic experience for players.

THE PRICE IS RIGHT video game will be available in North America September 2008.

E308: Get Movies on your PS3 and PSP via Playstation Network

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:50:00 -0400

It's no Netflix, but it's a start. If Sony wants to compete with the XBox 360, though, it'll have to do better than almost iTunes. Still, if you have a PSP, it's a better value than UMD's.

PLAYSTATION(R)Network's Video Delivery Service to Offer Movies and TV Shows for Purchase and Rental Through PLAYSTATION(R)3 and PSP(R) (Playstation(R)Portable)

New service to expand entertainment offering of PLAYSTATION 3 and PSP giving consumers downloadable content when and where they want it

FOSTER CITY, Calif., July 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today launches the company's new video delivery service on PLAYSTATION(R)Store for PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) systems in the United States. Consumers will have the ability to download full-length movies, television shows, and original programming accessible through the PLAYSTATION Store on PLAYSTATION(R)Network. With nearly 300 full length movies and more than 1,200 TV episodes, many available in both standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD), PLAYSTATION Network's video delivery service makes PS3 the ultimate entertainment platform and enhances PSP's status as a portable entertainment marvel. PLAYSTATION Network's video delivery service will become available later this evening.

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) will initially make available to consumers content for video rental and electronic sell-through from top movie studios including: 20th Century Fox, Lionsgate Entertainment, MGM Studios, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Warner Bros. Entertainment as well as titles for rent from The Walt Disney Studios and a wide-ranging menu of popular titles from a variety of television partners.

"PLAYSTATION Network's video delivery service capitalizes on the superior value and entertainment potential of PS3 and PSP -- not only for gaming enthusiasts, but also for the millions of consumers looking to buy the best, most versatile solution for their home entertainment system," said Jack Tretton, president and CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "The collaboration of Sony's film, TV and entertainment business units, coupled with our hardware and content offerings, provide consumers with entertainment experiences unlike any on the market."

The video delivery service will have full integration in the PLAYSTATION Network, utilizing the same login, wallet management, and user interface of the newly revamped PLAYSTATION Store. Video will be categorized, for example, by top rating, alphabetical order, television shows, and movies and content is also fully searchable, for example, by title, producer, studio and cast. In addition, PS3's progressive downloading means users can view content shortly after the downloading process begins. Background downloading is also a feature of PS3, allowing users to access other platform features such as gaming and other XMB(TM) (XrossMediaBar) content while a video is downloading to their consoles.

20th Century Fox's "Jumper", Lionsgate's "3:10 to Yuma", MGM's "Rocky", Paramount Pictures' "Cloverfield", Sony Pictures' "Spider-Man", and Warner Bros. Entertainment's "10,000 B.C." are a few of the titles available for electronic sell-through on the video service at launch. Disney's "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" will also be available for rent. Additionally, SCEI will be introducing original exclusive content such as

Xam'd: Lost Memories, an anime series developed by Sony Computer Entertainment Japan, delivered in SD and HD.

Consumers who rent a movie from the video delivery service have 14 days to watch the content. Once content playback is started, consumers have a full 24 hours to enjoy their rental. Pricing for rental movies at launch ranges from $2.99 to $5.99, and pricing for purchased movies ranges from $9.99 to $14.99. Sony has also adopted Marlin Digital Rights Management technology, an open industry standard for protecting and managing digital content, to provide consumers with flexible access to their content while ensuring digital rights are protected. Usage rules of the video download service will allow content for purchase to be shared on multiple activated devices including PS3 and PSP systems per PLAYSTATION Network account, depending on the type of content purchased by the user.

One of the biggest value propositions of PLAYSTATION Network's video delivery service is the ability to transfer digital content onto the PSP from the PS3. For the initial electronic sell-through or rental price, consumers can also transfer content onto multiple devices. The connectivity between PS3 and PSP platforms provides a seamless solution for those looking for entertainment experiences on their own terms -- on the go or in their living room -- all with a new-found freedom of not having to worry about TV schedules, movie listings or viewing on a desktop PC.

E308: Sony makes announcements for PS3, PS2, PSP (PS2 refuses to die; PS3 unable to thrive)

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:23:13 -0400

It has to be absolutely killing Sony that the PS2 is still doing better than the PS3, but here's what they have up their digital sleeve:

Sony Computer Entertainment America Announces New 80GB PLAYSTATION(R)3, Limited Edition PlayStation(R)2 Bundle, and PlayStation(R)Portable Entertainment Pack at E3 2008

Company Also Launches New PLAYSTATION(R)Network Video Delivery Service and Showcases More Than 140 First-Party and Third-Party Games Across All Platforms

LOS ANGELES, July 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) held its annual press conference today at the E3 Media & Business Summit, making a series of announcements which demonstrated the strength of the PlayStation brand across all three of its platforms and further leveraged the heritage and momentum of PlayStation's family of products to provide consumers with more compelling entertainment options than anyone in the videogame industry.

Starting in September 2008, the newly announced PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) 80GB model will become the mainstay of the company's hardware line-up. The 80GB model will retail for $399, and will offer all of the features and functionality of the 40GB model with double the storage to accommodate more movies, graphics, music, photos and other entertainment content -- all for the same price. As with its predecessor, the new 80GB model will be a complete entertainment system comprising of a Blu-ray(TM) player, HDMI output, an integrated Wi-Fi connection, Cell Broadband Engine(TM) and a built-in 80GB hard-disk drive. The multi-functionality of the 80GB PS3, combined with more than 140 exclusive and third-party titles and the PLAYSTATION(R)Network, is a comprehensive entertainment value designed to appeal to a wide range of consumers from hard-core gamers to general entertainment enthusiasts.

Following the success of five PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) Entertainment Packs, SCEA announced the Ratchet and Clank(R) Size Matters PSP Entertainment Pack, a new bundle showcasing PSP's multi-functional feature set, targeted for holiday gift-giving. Launching in October 2008 for $199.99 MSRP, the bundle will include a limited-edition "Silver" PSP system with the highly acclaimed game, Ratchet and Clank(R) Size Matters; a blockbuster movie on UMD(R) (Universal Media Disc); a PLAYSTATION(R)Network voucher to download the innovative puzzle game, echochrome(TM) from PLAYSTATION(R)Store: and a 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM) for storing music, videos, photos and more.

In addition, SCEA introduced a new family entertainment bundle for the PlayStation(R)2 system, the most successful console in industry history. The limited-edition LEGO(R) Batman(TM): The Videogame PlayStation(R)2 Pack will feature the highly anticipated TT Games/Warner Bros Interactive Entertainment title LEGO(R) Batman(TM): The Videogame, Warner Home Video's Justice League: The New Frontier on DVD, and a PlayStation(R)2 system -- all for $149.99 MSRP, which represents a $30 savings for consumers if the contents were purchased separately. SCEA will also launch more than 130 new titles for PlayStation(R)2 system this year, totaling 10,000 PlayStation(R)2 titles by end of the year.

"It's undeniable we have three successful platforms, the broadest and best line-up of some of the biggest exclusives in the business, and are continuing to deliver compelling and original content to our consumers," said Jack Tretton, president and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment America. "Expect to see continued momentum this year as we remain focused on delivering products and services that extend the strength of our brand and reaffirms PlayStation's place at the center of consumers' homes."

Additionally, the company previewed more than 140 first and third-party games at E3 2008 proving its content line-up this year is unmatched in the industry due to its depth, breadth, and diversity. Throughout the holiday season and this fiscal year, SCEA and its third-party partners plan to release more than 140 software titles for the PS3 available on Blu-ray Disc(TM) (BD).

SCEA is also developing more than 50 games, game packs, and add-ons downloadable via PLAYSTATION(R)Network in North America this year, offering something for every taste, lifestyle and budget. Also, to continue offering greater value to PlayStation fans, SCEA will launch PS3 Greatest Hits program on July 28 with 10 first and third party titles at a reduced price of $29.99. The PS3 Greatest Hits titles include Warhawk(TM), Motorstorm(TM) and Resistance: Fall of Man(R) from SCEA; Call of Duty(R) 3, Activision(R); Need for Speed: Carbon, Electronic Arts; The Elder Scrolls(R) IV: Oblivion(TM), Bethesda(R) Softworks; Ninja Gaiden(R) Sigma, Tecmo(R); Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six(R) Vegas and Assassin's Creed(TM), Ubisoft(R).

SCEA also reiterated its commitment to make PLAYSTATION(R)Network the best entertainment experience in the industry, by announcing a new video delivery service on PLAYSTATION(R)Store for PS3 and PSP systems in the United States. The new video service, available today, allows U.S. consumers to download full-length TV shows and movies to both their PS3 and PSP through the PlayStation Store for rental or purchase.

In addition, SCEA further outlined progress against its revolutionary online experience, PlayStation Home. Highlighting new first party high definition virtual environments for hit PlayStation titles including, Unchartered: Drake's Fortune and Warhawk. With significant third party support already on board, Sony Computer Entertainment will be expanding the beta in Summer 2008 and commence the open beta service by Fall 2008.

E308: Nintendo Unveils Wii Music, Wii Sports Resort, Animal Crossing: City Folk for Wii

Dale — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:19:50 -0400

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- At the E3 Media & Business Summit today, Nintendo unveiled an enhancement for its iconic Wii Remote™ controller and new games that promise to further enrich and engage players around the world. These offerings build on Nintendo’s ongoing efforts to remove the barriers between expert and novice video game players, an approach that has been instrumental in creating a paradigm shift for the industry since the advent of the Nintendo DS™ portable system and the Wii™ home console.

“Much has been reported about the ‘expanded audience’ for games, but what’s really at play is an expanded experience,” said Cammie Dunaway, Nintendo of America’s executive vice president of Sales & Marketing. “People of all ages having fun together—whether in the same room or from remote locations—puts smiles on faces and drives millions of new players into video game entertainment.”

Wii Sports™ Resort is not just a simple sequel to one of the world’s most popular console games, Wii Sports. It is the first title to make use of another Nintendo advance, the Wii MotionPlus accessory, which plugs into the base of the Wii Remote controller to provide an incredibly realistic motion experience. Scheduled for release in spring 2009, Wii Sports Resort includes new game experiences such as Sword Play, Power Cruising on a water scooter and Disc Dog, along with the new Wii MotionPlus accessory and Wii Remote Jacket at no additional cost. The Wii MotionPlus enhances precision and player immersion for the Nintendo-pioneered motion-controlled gaming trend that has drawn millions of new people to the world of video games.

This holiday season, Animal Crossing®: City Folk lets players move into a fun community populated by quirky animals. Players can improve their community, chat with the locals or just spend the day fishing and collecting fossils. There is also the opportunity to catch a bus into the new urban city area. Though you’ll never see other players in the city, you can connect with them in new ways using WiiConnect24™, such as bidding on your friends’ items at the auction house or visiting the Happy Room Academy headquarters to see the top-rated player house. Another new feature in Animal Crossing®: City Folk is the ability to visit friends’ towns and chat with one another using the new WiiSpeak™ microphone. The WiiSpeak microphone is sold separately at an MSRP of $29.99 and allows Internet voice chat among Wii Friends – not just from person to person but from room to room.

Wii Music™ makes it easy for people to jam to tunes, even if they don’t know anything about music. Wii Music transforms the Wii Remote and Nunchuk™ controllers into more than 60 different instruments, including a violin, steel drums, electric guitar – even a cowbell. Players strum, shake, tap and drum along to the music in a pressure-free musical playground where there are no mistakes. They can improvise on their arrangements by skipping a note – or adding 10. The music always sounds great, but it’s up to players to come up with creative arrangements that they can then send to friends and family who have Wii Music. Those Wii Friends can then put their own spin on the arrangement and send it back and forth over WiiConnect24. Wii Music will be available in the United States for the holidays.

In the portable category, Nintendo DS remains on top. Nintendo DS has sold more than 20 million units in the United States and more than 70 million worldwide. Third-party publishers continue to take advantage of that installed base. Activision’s exclusive Guitar Hero® On Tour: Decades makes its anticipated debut this fall, as does a collection of wild and wonderful critters from Electronic Arts’ Spore™ Creatures.

To view a video of Nintendo’s E3 2008 media briefing, please visit e3.nintendo.com.

E308: Get Netflix Movies via XBox Live

Dale — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:45:06 -0400

Microsoft is taking on Roku before it even launches. They're certainly taking away any reason to buy an AppleTV.

Microsoft and Netflix Unveil Partnership to Instantly Stream Movies and TV Episodes to the TV via Xbox LIVE

Exclusive agreement creates game-changing home entertainment experience; more than 10,000 movies and TV episodes will be available to watch instantly at no additional cost to paying subscribers.

LOS ANGELES, July 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- An exciting new home theater experience is coming to living rooms this holiday season. At the E3 Media and Business Summit, Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX), the world's largest online movie rental service, today unveiled an exclusive partnership to offer consumers the ability to instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the television via the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system. Xbox 360 will be the only game system that lets users instantly watch movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix. This movie watching innovation will be available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix subscribers and will let those users enjoy streaming movies from Netflix on Xbox LIVE at no additional cost.

A growing library of more than 10,000 movies and TV episodes will be available from Netflix when it launches on Xbox LIVE in late fall, with more choices added over time. Through this agreement, along with the existing Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store, Xbox 360 will be home to more movies and TV shows on demand than any other device connected to the TV. Xbox LIVE quickly and easily connects consumers and their friends to the entertainment they want -- with no PC required for viewing.

Netflix on Xbox 360 is an important component of the new Xbox experience, a new generation of games and entertainment experiences that will be available on Xbox 360 consoles this fall. The new Xbox experience, also announced today at the E3 Media and Business Summit, represents the first time in history that a mass-market consumer electronics device has been re-invented through free software, giving people more fun and intuitive ways to interact, play and enjoy entertainment content.

"Watching movies at home will never be the same. Netflix on Xbox 360 is an entertainment first, and we are bringing friends together with the best in entertainment content like no other device in the living room," said John Schappert, corporate vice president of Interactive Entertainment LIVE, Software and Services Business at Microsoft. "We are creating a completely new social entertainment experience, and Xbox 360 will be the only video game system where you can access your library of instantly streamable movies from Netflix and turn any room into a virtual movie theater."

From the Netflix Web site, members simply add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant Queues. Those choices will be automatically displayed on the TV screen via Xbox 360 and available to watch instantly. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds. In addition to instantly streaming movies to the TV, Xbox LIVE Gold members can fast-forward, pause and rewind, all using either their Xbox 360 Controller or Media Remote. In all, the user interface creates a highly personalized experience that puts viewers in control.

"Netflix and Xbox 360 are a perfect combination, the leading online movie rental service and the leading games and entertainment system joining forces to create an all-in-one entertainment experience with content for everyone," said Reed Hastings, chairman and CEO of Netflix. "For Netflix, it represents an important step forward in making instantly streaming movies on the TV more broadly available to our members."

The library of movies and TV episodes that will be available for instant streaming from Netflix via Xbox 360 includes scores of Academy Award winners and nominees, episodes from a number of popular, currently running and classic TV shows, and 24 of the movies rated by the American Film Institute as the greatest ever.

Today, Xbox LIVE members can also download movies and purchase TV shows from the industry-leading Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store, currently packed with content from more than 45 networks and studios. The Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store offers more than twice the high-definition content than the nearest cable provider and more than 6,000 hours of TV shows and movies.

E308: More Rock Band 2 Details

Dale — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:15:06 -0400

This is really starting to sound cool, not that the original isn't already awesome. We can't wait to get our hands on this one.

For the First Time Ever in a Music Videogame - Compete Against Other Bands Online; Export Music Tracks from Original Disc to Rock Band 2(1)

Upgraded World Tour, Battle of the Bands, Set Challenges and Drum Trainer All Deliver an Authentic, Optimized Experience

Soundtrack to Feature Over 100 Songs From Unrivaled Blend of Classic, Developing and New Artists

Rock Band is the first music game to Support Open Platform By Officially Licensing Third Party Rock Band 2 Instruments: Mad Catz Premier Guitar Controllers, Cymbal Expansion Pack and Professional ION Alesis Drum Set

LOS ANGELES, July 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Harmonix, the world's premier music video game development company, and MTV Games, a division of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , along with marketing and distribution partner Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) , today revealed at the 2008 E3 Media & Business Summit new features for the next evolution of the groundbreaking music platform, Rock Band(TM) 2. With the original Rock Band title providing millions of players with a new way to interact with the music and artists they love, Rock Band 2 builds upon its core band foundation to offer an unparalleled, deeper, dynamic gameplay experience.

Rock Band 2 raises the bar in music gaming innovation with new features to rock the world:

-- Local and global online modes to connect the entire Rock Band community

-- World Tour mode, now online, simplifies the best of gameplay from the original Rock Band by fusing Solo Tour and Band World Tour modes and cranks it up a notch with an all new collection of opportunity gigs, challenges, cities, venues and hirable staff

-- Tour Challenges that offer rockers a chance to play through mini-campaigns focused on the best songs by instrument, decade, genre, artist, album and more

-- Battle of the Bands mode challenges players to go head to head against other bands in constantly refreshed contests* created by Harmonix (*internet connection required)

-- Quickplay makes it easier than ever to get in and jam without hassle while allowing for new prefab characters or customized characters that can play on any instrument plus lets you make your own set lists and organize your song lists in a variety of categories (genre, era, etc.)

-- Customizable Set Lists keep the music rolling and your band rocking in Quickplay mode

-- Drum Trainer mode gives players the fundamentals of different beats and fills, translating gameplay into real drumming skills

-- Character Creator completes your look with all new choices in clothing, accessories, tattoos, hairstyles, instruments and more to keep your unique rock avatar playing the full rock part

-- Backwards compatibility with all Rock Band downloadable music content released to date

-- Disc Export Feature gives owners of the original Rock Band the ability to export most of the Rock Band disc tracks and upgrade them into Rock Band 2 gameplay -- the first time ever in videogame history!(1)

Rock Band 2 features the largest music catalogue of any music-based videogame to date including:

-- The Rock Band 2 soundtrack will feature over 100 songs -- with over 80 songs on disc plus an additional 20 bonus tracks which will be made available for free download this fall.

-- Unrivaled Blend of Classic, Developing and Emerging rock acts including Pearl Jam, Metallica, Allman Brothers, Motorhead, Devo, Jane's Addiction, Megadeth, Paramore, Modest Mouse and more.

-- Rock Band 2 is the first and only video game to feature the music of AC/DC. It includes their epic rock anthem, "Let There Be Rock"

-- After 14 years since Guns N' Roses last official music release, Axl Rose selects Rock Band 2 to debut official new track, "Shackler's Revenge" from the highly-anticipated album Chinese Democracy

-- For the first time ever, music from American music icon, Bob Dylan, is featured in a video game with "Tangled Up In Blue"

-- With ongoing weekly DLC releases including individual tracks, track packs and full albums, the Rock Band music library will feature more than 500 songs by year's end!

From the solid officially licensed Rock Band 2 instruments to the expanded third party options, Rock Band 2 introduces new and improved choices that promise to deliver unsurpassed realism. In addition, Harmonix and MTV Games have become the first companies to officially support third party instruments and accessories in a music videogame.

Achieve ultimate stardom with the upgraded functionality and smooth new look of the official Rock Band 2 instruments.

-- Fender Stratocaster Controller takes on a new authentic look plus adds a reinforced strum bar, quieter buttons, wireless functionality and a built in calibration tool that automatically sets your AV setup to an ideal setting for maximum rock.

-- Drum set goes wireless while also featuring quieter, velocity sensitive drum pads and a metal reinforced pedal.

-- Microphone showcases authentic styling and weight.

Kick up the intensity with officially licensed third party instruments from Mad Catz:

-- Fender Telecaster Controller features soft buttons with lower action to help you shred faster than ever.

-- Fender Bass Controller, the first bass guitar controller ever, takes the shape of the Fender P-Bass with extended length, tuning pegs and a split strum bar to replicate finger-bass style picking.

-- Full-sized Squire Stratocaster Guitar Controller multiplies the authentic guitar experience by featuring a controller built into an actual Squire Stratocaster body.

-- Cymbal Expansion Pack is a straightforward but amazing upgrade to the Rock Band 2 drum set featuring add-on cymbals.

Take Rock Band 2 instrument authenticity to a whole new level with a high-end peripheral from ION:

-- ION Drum Rocker, a real electronic drum kit that functions as a game controller, brings the Rock Band fantasy to life featuring a simple substitution that takes the drum kit from a controller to a real instrument.

Rock Band 2 will make its debut on Xbox 360(TM) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft this September and have an exclusive launch window in North America. Rock Band 2 will be available for additional platforms later this year. Rock Band 2 will be available for the PLAYSTATION(R) 3 and PlayStation(R) 2 computer entertainment systems and Wii(TM) later this year.

As previously revealed today, Rock Band will ship with an exclusive launch window on the Xbox(TM) 360(TM) videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft in Italy, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland and Benelux July 24th, and on other platforms this Fall.

The Rock Band online music store recently surpassed 16 million paid downloads since the game's launch in late November 2007. With more than 200 tracks available to date via disc and download purchase (complete list of tracks at http://www.rockband.com/dlc), the massive Rock Band Music Store allows players to preview and purchase downloadable individual music tracks, packs and albums from the vast selection of offerings available as they build their own custom Rock Band library.

Rock Band 2 is rated "T" for Teen (lyrics, suggestive themes) by the ESRB.

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