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Tuesday , April 19, 2005 |
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Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas PC Preview 06:02 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Action
(3 comments)
IGN and GameSpot headed on down to their local Rockstar office to check out the latest build of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas for the PC:
One other new thing is a small but notable addition to the soundtracks. Like the PC version of Vice City, you can create custom soundtracks from MP3s, but now you can also tell the game to randomly insert its commercials in between songs. You won't get the DJ dialogues, since they typically lead into one of the game's own tracks, but all the commercials are in there. Of course, you can record your own DJ dialogue and convert it to MP3s and have the full package, as long as you sequence it correctly. Other than that, there won't be any new content--no new vehicles, weapons, missions, et cetera. Nor will Rockstar add any multiplayer, but I think it's safe to expect another Multi-Theft Auto from the MTA Team not too long after release.
The IGN preview also reveals that the game is set to be released on a single DVD, rather than multiple CDs.
WPG 06:01 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(0 comments)
Call of Duty 2 Nudies 04:04 pm
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: Action
(10 comments)
Activision and Infinity Ward sent over three new 1600x1200 screen shots of Call of Duty 2 which show off some of the levels in the North African campaign. Dig it:
(Click to Enlarge!)
Looks pretty good for using their own game engine. The models aren't finished from what I can tell, but the rest looks pretty snazzy for being in such an early state.
Remedy's Next Game? 04:01 pm
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: Action
(8 comments)
Remedy, the makers of the hit series Max Payne (well, the first one was really good) will be showing off their new unannounced title at ATI's booth at E3 next month according to CGM. Here's the poop: Much like they did with Half-Life 2 at the two previous Electronic Entertainment Expos, PC graphics chip maker ATI plans to have two special demo theaters at this year's E3, this time showcasing new games from Take Two Interactive and Max Payne creators Remedy.
The theaters will each have 20 minutes for demoing each game, according to a press note promoting the event. At the moment, there is no further word on what games will be shown at the ATI Take Two or Remedy demo booths.
World of Warcraft 1.4 Patch Adds PvP Honour System 01:03 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- MMOG: Role-Playing
(11 comments)
Blizzard's new 128MB World of Warcraft patch has added among numerous tweaks & twiddles an honour system that rewards successful PvPers with "phat l00tz."
Check out the humongous patch changelist here, and grab the patch via FilePlanet if the in-game updater is painfully slow.
More Xbox 360 Rumours 12:57 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Consoles: Xbox Next
(6 comments)
Love the rumours they do, so here's yet more from GamesIndustryBiz who suggest WebTV for a $100 more expensive version of the console (rumoured for some time) and backwards compatibility only with the more expensive unit due to the need of a hard drive for original Xbox titles:
WebTV is Microsoft's effort at bringing internet communication and media functionality to the living room, and includes basic functionality such as web, e-mail and IM access along with the ability to stream music and video channels from the 'net or from local PCs.
Integrating the system with Xbox 360 would be a logical move, and a major land-grab for Microsoft in this space - which is tipped to become more important in the coming years as increasing amounts of content are broadcast over the Internet as opposed to over traditional TV networks.
The mill workers will be out of a job come 12th of May, sadly.
Broadcom To Provide Wi-Fi Gubbins For Revolution 12:46 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Consoles: GameCube
(1 comment)
The Nintendo Revolution may no longer be appearing at E3, but it hasn't stopped Broadcom announcing that they'll be supplying the bits and pieces to make the in-built Wi-Fi from working its magic:
Broadcom Corporation, a global leader in wired and wireless broadband communications semiconductors, today announced a strategic partnership to provide wireless technology for Nintendo's next generation gaming systems. Broadcom's diverse portfolio of technology solutions will enable Nintendo to add cutting-edge wireless features and connectivity to its popular line of gaming consoles. Nintendo's next generation console (codenamed "Revolution") will feature an advanced wireless platform that integrates multiple technologies to enable a new and exciting gaming experience.
"The depth and breadth of Broadcom's wireless expertise will enable Nintendo to deliver the industry's most innovative gaming solutions," said Genyo Takeda, Senior Managing Director, General Manager, Integrated Research & Development Division for Nintendo. "By integrating Broadcom wireless solutions into our next-generation systems, we can provide the high performance gaming and connectivity capabilities that will delight users of 'Revolution'."
Buena Vista Purchases 25 to Life Developer; Establishes New Vancouver Studio 12:25 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(0 comments)
Buena Vista Games has acquired Avalanche Software, studio behind the recently announced Eidos multiplayer shooter, 25 To Life, and established a new development house in Vancouver, complete with Electronic Arts Canada senior development and business staff:
"The acquisition of Avalanche Software and the creation of a development studio in Vancouver mark a significant milestone in becoming a top tier video game publisher by securing the industry's top talent to build and create game franchises," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "Avalanche Software has a proven track record of creating high quality console games based on its own compelling content and some of the industry's top brands, and is a perfect fit for our Disney-based franchises. The new studio in Vancouver is already off to a strong start and growing rapidly to focus on cutting-edge, action oriented core-gamer content and will be led by a veteran management team formerly of Electronic Arts."
BVG's studio in Vancouver, Canada will focus on developing innovative action/adventure games for the major video game consoles including upcoming next-generation platforms. The studio is founded by a veteran game development team, with a successful track record of producing hit franchise product for Electronic Arts, Inc. The studio will focus on developing original intellectual property, as well as key BVG-owned content for the older core gamer consumer.
BVG's new development studio is based in Vancouver, Canada and operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of BVG. The studio founders are Josh Holmes, Howard Donaldson, Daryl Anselmo, and Jorge Freitas. Holmes, Anselmo and Freitas are all expert video game developers who were instrumental in creating the NBA Street and Def Jam franchises for Electronic Arts and have worked on multiple high profile franchises throughout their careers. Donaldson formerly served as EA Canada's Chief Financial Officer for seven years overseeing the company's successful growth and was an integral member of the executive team. The Vancouver studio has already assembled a high-caliber group of more than 20 talented, veteran game developers and is continuing to grow and establish their core team.
Buena Vista certainly has the cash and infrastructure to be a major player in the games market, so I eagerly look forward to their new titles.
CDV Assassinates Hitler For War Front: Turning Point 12:19 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Real-Time Strategy
(0 comments)
CDV has today announced a full E3 unveiling for an alternate history World War 2 real-time strategy title in which Adolf is assassinated:
War Front: Turning Point explores an alternate World War II, one in which Hitler is assassinated in the early days. This new timeline includes more than just new leadership. Players will take command of experimental weapons, prototype vehicles and units rarely seen in strategy games in an attempt to alter or secure the historical outcome of World War II.
War Front: Turning Point will feature top-notch graphics and lush battlefield environments that span the globe. In addition to a refreshing storyline, the game will offer players sophisticated resource and technology management systems combined with action packed, in-your-face combat. Both casual and veteran real-time strategy enthusiasts will enjoy the truly immersive gaming experience of War Front.
"War Front marks a new partnership between CDV and Digital Reality. We are thrilled to be working together on such an exciting title," said Tom Gross, CEO of CDV Software Entertainment USA. "War Front has all the makings of a great action-strategy title: an entertainingly fresh story, compelling gameplay, gorgeous graphics and technology that is sure to raise the bar for the genre."
Digital Reality has been responsible for such titles as Haegemonia, Desert Rats vs. Africa Corps and D-Day.
Update: The first screenshots can be found here.
FBI After Take-Two Pirates 12:11 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(5 comments)
Here's an interesting story: due to various mergers and acquisitions, Take-Two Interactive has been illegally selling -for three years- Ideas From The Deep's Bugdom, but not having the money for a public law suit, IDF contacted Flowers By Irene, who are now investigating the matter. More from GameDailyBiz:
Compounding this mess is the fact that most purchasers of Bugdom, a game which ironically is quite buggy, have been contacting Roathe for tech support despite the fact that he's not listed anywhere in the game's documentation. Roathe says that Global Star typically doesn't respond to Bugdom inquiries and when customers use Google to look for help, Bugdom searches invariably lead to him. Customers who contact IFD are then sent this e-mail:
Unfortunately you purchased a pirated copy of Bugdom. The only copies of Bugdom that can legally be sold are those on the ifd.com website; we do not have any retail copies for sale by anyone, either at a retail store or a website other than www.ifd.com. Neither IFD nor Pangea get any of the money from those sales, and they also prevent us from selling our legal copies into retail.
The full article can be found here.
Close Combat: First to Fight Ships 12:07 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Action / Strategy
(0 comments)
After a few delays, Destineer's action-strategy title Close Combat: First to Fight is now shipping to North American stores:
Players lead a four-man fire team of US Marines through the perils of modern urban combat in Beirut. Gamers can play through the campaign as either a single player or a co-op experience online or via LAN. In addition, gamers can go head-to-head in the fire team arena with as many as 8 players simultaneously competing.
Close Combat: First to Fight utilizes authentic Marine urban military doctrine, tactics and assets to save lives, take down insurgents and restore order. With direction from the US Marine Corps and a beautiful new engine from Destineer, Close Combat: First to Fight is as close as you can get on a computer or Xbox to being a Marine fire team leader in modern urban combat.
Sims 2 Invades Every Platform Known To Man 12:01 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Simulation
(7 comments)
Wanting to milk the cash cow considerably further, EA has announced plans to adapt The Sims 2 for pretty much every platform known to man:
Electronic Arts today announced that The Sims 2 is in development for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, the Nintendo GameCube, and for all handhelds including PSP handheld videogame system, the Nintendo DS, the Nintendo Game Boy Advance and mobile phones. The Sims 2 on the PC swept the nation in Fall 2004 by becoming the fastest selling game of all time and the No. 1 PC game of 2004 with sales already over 4.5 Million copies worldwide.
Maxis-EA is redefining this highly-acclaimed franchise and will deliver classic open-ended gameplay along with exclusive new features. Aspirational gameplay and fully customizable content will give players the most authentic Sims experience to date on console. This innovative gameplay will allow players to make their dreams come true while avoiding their innermost fears. And, for the first time, players will be able to take direct control of their Sim without having to use their cursor. All handheld versions will feature unique storylines and will ship simultaneously with the console games.
Although not revealed in the press release, EA will be unveiling the 3DO and C64 ports in a glitzy ceremony at E3.
Psychonauts Ships 11:57 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Action / Adventure
(0 comments)
Tim Schafer's somewhat wacky action-adventure game, Psychonauts, is now shipping to stores across North America for the PC and Xbox:
Created by Double Fine Productions, Inc., Psychonauts thrusts players into a third-person psychic odyssey across 13 incredibly unique levels: three set in the real world and ten set inside the mental worlds of misfits, monsters and madmen. Once inside a mind, players rise in rank by collecting figments of imagination; sorting through emotional baggage; clearing out mental cobwebs and cracking open memory vaults. Players also earn psychic powers like telekinesis, invisibility, pyrokinesis and clairvoyance as they progress through the game.
Featuring a humorous storyline filled with unforgettable characters and non-linear gameplay of incredible depth, Psychonauts offers players multiple paths throughout wildly imaginative settings. Along the way, players must conquer an array of challenging puzzles with alternate solutions that tailor themselves to a player's own strengths and abilities.
Five years in the making, let's hope the full title continues the promise shown in the brief demo.
Call of Duty 2 Preview 11:53 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Action
(0 comments)
Over on GameSpy today is an 'exclusive' preview of Call of Duty 2, which in fact offers absolutely nothing new:
For Call of Duty 2, Infinity Ward has ditched the Quake 3 engine in favor of all-new proprietary technology. In many regards, it still looks a lot like Call of Duty - the interface looks the same, and the characters look and move in a familiar style. There are some new bells and whistles, however, from the real-time lighting and shadows to the advanced smoke effects that look like they'll play a big part in the game. At first glance, it doesn't pack the "wow" punch of a Half-Life 2 or DOOM 3, but it looks to be a big improvement from the first game.
Dark Age of Camelot 14 Day Trial 01:21 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: MMOG
(4 comments)
Mythic is once again offering a free 14-day trial for Dark Age of Camelot:
Mythic Entertainment, developer and publisher of the massively-multiplayer online role-playing game, "Dark Age of Camelot(R)," today made a new version of the game's 14-day free trial broadly available for download to players new to the compelling world of "Camelot." This trial version incorporates many new features, which Mythic recently introduced as part of the latest in a series of free major upgrades. The 14-day trial is available for download from various web sites listed at www.darkageofcamelot.com/downloads.
"With all the upgrades we have made to improve the new user experience in our game, there has never been a better time to join 'Dark Age of Camelot,'" said Mark Jacobs, president and CEO of Mythic Entertainment. "Our goal with this trial version was to create an ideal introduction for players unfamiliar with 'Dark Age of Camelot's' unique setting and features, including our industry-leading Realm vs. Realm system of PvP combat."
I'll assume if you already have an account but it isn't active, you can log in free for the next 14 days. Downloads and what not can be found at the Official website.
Halo 2 Expansion Preview 01:17 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Consoles: Xbox
(35 comments)
TeamXbox fired up a preview of Bungie's commercial map pack for Halo 2. A company like Epic would call it a free bonus pack. The Halo 2 Multiplayer Map Pack is the first true expansion pack for a gaming console, adding 9 brand new multiplayer maps that are even more detailed and creative than the ones we've been playing since November 9th, 2004. The expansion pack will also include several other features including some behind the scenes footage, a documentary and more, but we will focus more on these features in Part 2 of our Multiplayer Map Pack coverage. For now we will take a detailed look at the first 4 maps: Containment, Warlock, Sanctuary and Turf. We will also touch on the Auto Update that becomes available today, which is also included in the Map Pack so players without Xbox Live can still download the update and enjoy the gameplay enhancements and improvements offline. Without further adieu let's get into the action and take a look at the first 4 maps of the Halo 2 Multiplayer Map Pack. What a different culture we PC gamers live in.
Half-Life 2: Aftermath Shots 01:07 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: Action
(15 comments)
Thanks to Youngsu Kwon who sent word that the Korean publisher of Steam GNASoft released a couple new screen shots of the upcoming addon for Half-Life 2, Aftermath. The site loads a bit wonky and is in Korean, but the screenies need no translation. :)
Hardware & Tech Nuggets 01:00 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- hardware: General News
(0 comments)
Dell makes the best gaming notebook ever?
Game Reviews 12:45 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: General News
(2 comments)
Maybe Unreal Championship 2 really is that good...
In Other News... 12:15 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- In-House: In Other News...
(24 comments)
As much as I sympathize with aspiring developers who want to create mods using popular media franchises as the basis of their projects, I think we're at the point where everyone realizes that it's a big no-no without first gaining written permission to do so. For instance, would I like to play a Duke Nukem mod using a modern 3-D engine? You betcha! I'm sure that 3D Realms would too on a personal level but there are such things as copyrights to worry about. It's not the actual mod that's a problem, it begins a precedence that other totally non related entities can take advantage of and steal their ideas and not have to worry about the consequences. LucasArts used to be really strict about this sort of stuff whenever a Star Wars mod popped out, but over time the mod creators began to ask if it was okay to make something, sign an agreement that it had no commercial intentions (if it did, any proceeds would go to a Lucas designated charity) and in the end, the people who wanted to make the mod were happy, LucasArts was happy that it had protected it's Star Wars IP, and fans were happy because they had something cool to play with. The long story short: Ask first! Today's question: What are some of the best mods out today?
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Monday , April 18, 2005 |
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WPG 05:47 pm
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: General News
(0 comments)
- 'NASCAR SimRacing' - v1.0.2.5 Update Patch
- This update primarily addresses scoring and rule-related
problems for both single and multiplayer modes, but also includes the new
Dodge Charger for the NEXTEL Cup Series - 2005.
- Various Game Trailers
- '50 Cent: Bulletproof' (ALL) - Trailer
- 'Unreal Championship 2' (Xbox) - Trailer
MGM Foxes StarGate Mod 02:53 pm
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: Action
(29 comments)
Word at HL Fallout is that MGM Studios has foxed the StarGate Source mod for Half-Life 2:
We are very displeased to announce that apparently MGM the huge company feels very threatened by a group of individuals spread throughout the world. We have received a letter to desist from the creation of the Stargate: Source mod. At this time we are still discussing the issue but it does appear that we are going to be shutting down. Sorry to all of our followers and those who were looking forward to this mod. Personally I will not buy a copy of their game out of protest. It is an unfortunate circumstance when the large, powerful and wealthy must attack the small and free but it happens and it is business.
Next-Gen Madden Unveiling Saturday 12:58 pm
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Sports
(30 comments)
A 60 second TV ad for the next-gen Madden title from EA will be premiered during NFL Draft this Saturday, plus there are teaser screenshots available for a limited time only via this site:
EA's flagship football franchise, Madden NFL football, will make its next generation debut in a TV ad during the first hour of the NFL Draft broadcast on ESPN, beginning at 12noon ET. EA is deep in development on what will be the strongest next generation console line up in the videogame industry, highlighted by other hit franchise titles to be announced at a later date.
"We have had a dedicated team working on next generation Madden NFL football and we cannot wait for Madden fans to get a sneak peek at the experience that awaits them," said Frank Gibeau, Senior Vice President of North American Marketing for Electronic Arts. "An innovative and unparalleled NFL football experience is what we've promised; and that is what we are going to deliver."
Unreal Championship 2 Ships 11:39 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Consoles: Xbox
(9 comments)
Epic's Xbox exclusive Unreal Championship 2, complete with Mortal Kombat character, fatalities, and announcer, is now shipping to North American stores:
"Midway, along with the millions of people involved in the Unreal community around the world, is extremely excited about the release of Unreal Championship 2," said Steve Allison, chief marketing officer, Midway. "Our recently formed relationship with Epic Games, Inc. is one that we feel extremely thrilled about, both for Unreal Championship 2 and for future Unreal products, and we are confident that gamers will be extremely enthusiastic about our first title together. Unreal Championship 2 has been given the time over its development process to be refined to its core and, as we hope people will soon see, the outcome is one of the best-looking Xbox games on the market and one of, if not the greatest Xbox Live title ever."
"Getting a new game into consumers' hands is always an exciting time for us." said Mark Rein, Vice President, Epic Games. "This one is especially exciting because the UC2 team was able to incorporate third-person play and melee combat, which are new features to the Unreal series, as well as a thoroughly enjoyable and challenging single player storyline. We've had some really fantastic review scores including Game Informer's 9.5 out of 10, Maxim's 5 stars out of 5 and Official Xbox Magazine's 9.3 out of 10. We think gamers will be equally enchanted with this fresh approach to the shooter genre."
Flawless victory or humiliating defeat?
Today At The Vault 11:14 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(0 comments)
The latest from the RPG Vault:
Best Selling U.S. PC Games 11:05 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(3 comments)
The Sims 2 expansion beats out World of Warcraft for the top spot by the slightest of margins, with all others trailing considerably behind:
1) The Sims 2 University Expansion Pack
2) World Of Warcraft
3) The Sims 2
4) Half-Life 2
5) The Sims Deluxe
6) Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory
7) Halo: Combat Evolved
8) Galaxy Of Games 350 JC
9) Brothers In Arms: Road To Hill 30
10) Zoo Tycoon 2
-Week ending 3/4/05
Ahoy, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest 10:50 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: Action / Adventure
(1 comment)
Buena Vista has enlisted UK developer Funcom to crank out titles for all systems based on the Summer 2006 film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest:
"The 'Pirates of the Caribbean' franchise will develop over the next few years as one of the most exciting and important initiatives BVG will spearhead," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games, Inc. "Our upcoming games will expand the Pirates world and allow fans to take on the roles of some of the most rousing characters ever created, and experience firsthand their perilous adventures."
In BVG's upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest video games, consumers will be able to play as Captain Jack Sparrow, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann as they explore and brawl across land and sea on a memorable quest in search of the legendary Dead Man's Chest. The games will not only feature thrilling moments from the movie, but will expand the fantasy of the franchise by offering exciting new adventures and locations inspired by the rich "Pirates of the Caribbean" universe. The handheld titles are being developed by Seattle-based Amaze Entertainment and Griptonite Games.
Somehow I doubt the PC game will be a continuation of Akella's rather good foray for the first film, sadly.
GameStop Purchases Electronics Boutique 10:41 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(17 comments)
Two of the biggest game retail chains in North America are to merge in a $1.44 billion deal:
Under the terms of the agreement, Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp. (Electronics Boutique) shareholders will receive $38.15 in cash, plus the equivalent of 0.78795 shares of GameStop Corp. (GameStop) Class A common stock for each share of Electronics Boutique. Based on the closing price of GameStop's Class A common stock of $21.61 on Friday, April 15, 2005, the stock component of the per share merger consideration is $17.03. The total merger consideration per share of $55.18 represents a 34.2% premium to the closing price of Electronics Boutique's stock as of Friday, April 15, 2005. The total transaction value is approximately $1.44 billion with consideration consisting of approximately 70% cash and 30% common stock. GameStop intends to fund the cash portion of the transaction through the issuance of $950 million in senior bonds and excess cash.
R. Richard Fontaine, GameStop's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "This is an exciting transaction for everyone involved - our customers, our shareholders, and our two companies. This merger, which is a very positive step for GameStop, will enable us to enter new international markets and allow us to compete more effectively in the highly competitive U.S. video game industry. We are merging these two companies from a position of strength. Each organization is performing very well now, and we will be able to do more together by extending geographic reach, improving customer service, and continuing our aggressive store growth plans. Electronics Boutique is an impressive organization with a strong management team and we look forward to sharing best practices across both of our companies. In addition, the combined company will retain a strong capital structure, which will allow us to continue to invest in our business going forward."
The new expanded GameStop brand will have an approximate 25% market share, presuming stores in areas where EB was also located aren't closed.
Game of the Year? 04:00 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: General News
(20 comments)
We're about due for a poll for best game released the first quarter of 2005, so here it goes. Vote on your right! Choices include: Act of War: Direct Action, Brothers in Arms, Jade Empire, God of War, Mercenaries, Resident Evil 4,
Star Wars Republic Commando, SWAT 4, Tekken 5 andTom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory. A bit of a slow start I'll admit, but some very good games nonetheless.
Results of the Xbox what? poll can be found here. Lets just say that Xbox 360 didn't win.
The Week Ahead... 02:37 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(6 comments)
Your one-stop guide to all that is being released this week.
PC:
- Close Combat: First to Fight
- Delta Force Xtreme
- Dungeon Lords
- Laser Squad Nemesis
- Painkiller Gold
- Psychonauts
- Stolen
- Stronghold 2
Playstation 2:
- Ford Mustang Racing
- Stolen
Playstation Portable:
- ATV Offroad Fury: Blazin' Trails
- Smartbomb
Xbox:
- Ford Mustang Racing
- Psychonauts
- Stolen
- Unreal Championship 2
- WWE WrestleMania 21
GameCube:
Nintendo DS:
GameBoy Advance:
- Hugo: The Evil Mirror
- Killer 3D Pool
- Pac-Man Pinball
- Popeye: Spinach
- Scrabble Blast
DVD:
- A Love Song for Bobby Long
- Ambush Bay
- Attack on the Iron Coast
- Beach Red
- Beachhead
- Birth
- Dynasty: The Complete First Season
- Errol Flynn: The Signature Collection
- Garfield and Friends: Volume Three
- Good Neighbors: The Complete Series 1-3
- House of Flying Daggers
- House of Flying Daggers/Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (SE) 2-Pack
- Jacques Cousteau Odyssey: The Complete Series
- License to Drive
- Li'l Abner
- Meet the Fockers (Full Screen)
- Meet the Fockers (Widescreen)
- Miracles: The Series
- Mystery Science Theater 3000 Collection, Vol. 7
- Pope John Paul II (1920-2005)
- Primer
- Shirley Temple: Little Darling Pack
- Stephen King's Riding the Bullet
- Submarine X-1
- Teacher's Pet
- That 70's Show: The Complete Second Season
- The Four Feathers (1939)
- The Purple Plain
- The Quiet American (1958)
- XXX (Uncensored, Unrated, Director's Cut, 2 discs)
Movies - Now Showing:
- A Lot Like Love
- Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room
- King's Ransom
- Madison
- The Game of Their Lives
- The Interpreter
Movies - Opening Friday April 29th:
- 3-Iron
- Death of a Dynasty
- The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
- xXx: State of the Union
Close Combat: First to Fight got pushed back, but it's meant to be out this week, honest! Psychonauts looks kinda interesting, but it all rests on whether the entire game is cool, not just the small snippet found in the demo. Looking forward to Stronghold 2 myself, but contacts tell me a recent beta preview version was pretty ropey, especially in the path finding and AI areas, so once again I'll be holding out for reviews first. Other than that, Unreal Championship 2 for the Xbox is the only release of note, and that seems to be mainly multiplayer orientated. Colour me excited folks.
My hardware gremlins struck again this week - replacement motherboard that was literally a month old went (was probably a refurbished one), so I got sick of tending to the machine and started from near scratch. In now we have an A64 mobo/cpu with an ATI x850 and my still relatively new Corsair memory. Unplugged and away is a new low-powered backup system that'll come into play if the gremlins return, and away from that in the damp-free basement is a hard drive with a fresh install of Windows with various necessary apps seeing as my recurring hardware issue is corrupting HDDs, or blown motherboards, or broken graphics cards, or fried CPUs… Yeah, I'm pretty sure I'm cursed, so if any of you mofos are voodoo shamans, please help me lift it.
What will you be spending your money on in the week ahead?
Random Articles 02:36 am
- Andrew Burnes
- Games: General News
(0 comments)
Interviews:
Previews:
Halo 2 Live ! Update Today 01:34 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Consoles: Xbox
(8 comments)
Console games don't need patches? Posh! Bungie plans to release a patch for the game today on Xbox Live! which fixes a few multiplayer problems. Check back later for more details.
Oddworld Leaves Gaming Biz 01:26 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: General News
(5 comments)
If you've ever sat through one of Lorne Lanning's speeches you'd know how intense the dude is, so it's a shame to see him leaving the games industry. Word is, Oddworld will be now working on some TV/movie properties. Should make for some interesting viewing if they get it off the ground.
Hardware & Tech Nuggets 01:00 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- hardware: General News
(0 comments)
Game Reviews 12:45 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- Games: General News
(2 comments)
9.3 for Unreal Championship 2?
Stop the madness before it's too late!
In Other News... 12:30 am
- Robert 'Apache' Howarth
- In-House: In Other News...
(26 comments)
This weekend was pretty slow. So slow in fact that there wasn't even a Sunday update. Posting news on a regular basis isn't a friendly or forgiving mistress who can become quite jealous when real life intrudes. I'll be the first to admit that working at VE isn't exactly the most momentarily rewarding job in the world, but a lot of people do the read the site and the updates need to be consistent. I'd love to post 7 days a week 24 hours a day, but in essence this is still a 'part-time' job that I do because A) I enjoy it and B) I'm like Rain Man when it comes to being a creature of habit. Without going on a tangent, we may be be looking for some extra help to work on the site soon. So anyhow, Jade Empire was pretty cool. It wasn't a 9.9 game by any stretch of the imagination, but I think I'd slap it with a 8.7/10 score with no regret. As one forum poster said the other day, a 9.9 game should be one that even your grandmother knows about and people composed songs praising its greatness. My Grandmother hasn't ever heard of it, nor have I listened to any songs attesting to how good it is. BioWare is one of my favorite developers, but please... Reality check; Aisle five... thanks! /cracks whip in the direction of the D&D; pit. Gimmie another fantasy RPG!
Today's question: What developer has the coolest name? Keep in mind they don't have to make the best games, just have the coolest name.
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