Yarr! Pirates of the Atlantic off the Port Bow!

September 25th 2006 - Kristanix Studios, www.kristanix.com, is proud to announce their latest PC title, Pirates of the Atlantic. Defend your fortress from piratical invaders with the help of some lead, a cannon, and a lot of gunpowder. Blast pirate scum and keep them off your booty while upgrading the defenses to your keep.

Pirates of the Atlantic features an easy to learn action oriented system of defending your fortress from invaders. With upgrades to the defensive cannons range, power, and rate of fire the enemy will have no hope of overcoming a skilled marksman. Collect upgrades in combat to further boost abilities, or end up sleeping with Davey Jones.

Embark on the quest to ensure the Pirates of the Atlantic never make it past St. Kites. Battle famed pirates like Admiral Drake and many interesting enemies, from balloons and zepplins to Man-o-Wars.Download the free demo from the Kristanix Studios website at www.kristanix.com and discover the riches that the Atlantic holds.

Xbox 360 Gears Up for Its Second Holiday Season and Beyond

BARCELONA, Spain — Sept. 28, 2006 — In the city that helped influence the works of artists including Gaudi, Miró and Picasso, Microsoft Corp. delivered the fine art of gaming at X06 showcasing an extensive, groundbreaking collection of games for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system, Games for Windows and Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360. For the holiday season and beyond, Microsoft offers amazing experiences for all types of gamers — ranging from the hard-core gamer with the award-winning “Gears of War” to the gamer interested in a variety of genres with the broad reach title “Viva Piñata.”

Xbox 360 games arriving for the holidays include these:

• “Gears of War” (Epic Games Inc.). 2006 E3 Best Console Game winner “Gears of War” thrusts gamers into humankind’s horrifying epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde. This third-person tactical action/horror title lets gamers play in several modes (single, cooperative and customizable Xbox Live multiplayer gameplay) that unite next-generation technology and graphics with classic storytelling and a revolutionary tactical combat system.
  
  
• “Viva Piñata” (Rare Ltd.). The “Viva Piñata” world is an evolving paradise where players of all ages create a fantastical island to attract and care for the more than 60 species of wild-roaming Piñata animals. In the United States, the animated TV series “Viva Piñata” debuted Sept. 9 on 4Kids TV and licensed merchandise will be available in 2007.
  
  
• “Call of Duty 3” (Activision). The follow up to the No. 1 next-generation title delivers gamers right to the frontlines, closer than ever to the fury of combat. “Call of Duty 3” also offers intense multiplayer action for up to 24 players to team up online.
  
  
• Disney·Pixar’s “Cars” (THQ). The “Cars” video game, based on the Disney·Pixar film, is a high-performance interactive experience in the open world created in the film, challenging players to relive the excitement created by Lightning McQueen and his friends. Fans will discover unique characters and environments inspired by the film with more than 10 playable characters and 30 races and minigames to choose from.
  
  
• “Dead or Alive: Xtreme 2” (Tecmo Inc.). The girls of “Dead or Alive” are back and ready to battle it out in the tropical waters of Zack’s Island, race high-performance watercraft, compete in beach volleyball, sunbathe on white sand beaches and go all-in at Zack’s casino.
  
  
• “FIFA 2007” (EA). “FIFA 07” on the Xbox 360 heralds the start of the next generation of football gaming with the dynamic new EA SPORTS engine and all-new gameplay. Moving away from the traditional animation-based game engine, raw physics and data now drive the action, creating true-to-life movement, an unprecedented level of responsiveness and the most advanced visuals seen in a football game. Partner the new engine with the most innovative and extensive online feature sets to date, with 4 v 4 and streaming real world news, “FIFA 07” truly blurs the lines between video games and reality.
  
  
• “NBA 2K7” (2K Sports/Visual Concepts). “NBA 2K7,” the latest instalment of the No. 1 rated NBA 2K series, features breathtaking graphics, tight controls and a revolutionary shooting game. “NBA 2K7” delivers a new benchmark in high-level player details with Signature Style player animations that add a new level of gameplay strategies as gamers adjust to the different shooting styles of each NBA player. “NBA 2K7” also enhances the overall atmosphere with hyper-detailed arenas, enhanced arena lighting and numerous new camera angles to truly deliver the next generation of basketball video games.
  
  
• “NBA LIVE 07” (EA). Building upon the depth and authenticity that the NBA LIVE franchise has delivered for more than a decade, this season the game will once again revolutionize basketball gameplay. With new moves that are matched only by the game’s stunning visuals, players will be given more control than they ever imagined with the all-new EA SPORTS Total Freestyle Control. This year “NBA LIVE 07” will partner with the worldwide leader in sports to deliver more in-game ESPN content while you play.
  
  
• “NHL 07” (EA). Whether you’re running the front office or dominating the rink, “NHL 07” is the most intuitive and realistic hockey experience ever created. Powered by advanced gameplay, “NHL 07” features new responsive controls and photo-realistic graphics. Players take complete command over every movement on the ice without ever taking their hands off the analogue sticks.
  
  
• “Need for Speed Carbon” (EA). Delivering the next generation of adrenaline-filled street racing, “Need for Speed Carbon” will challenge players to face the ultimate driving test on treacherous canyon roads. “Need for Speed Carbon” delivers the next generation of customization, giving you the power to design and tweak your crew’s cars in every way using the groundbreaking new Autosculpt technology. Represent your car class, your crew and your turf in “Need for Speed Carbon,” a revolution in racing games.
  
  
• “Pro Evolution Soccer 6” (Konami Digital Entertainment GmbH). With more than 150 individual moves, techniques and tricks at your disposal, “Pro Evolution Soccer 6” enables you to play the “beautiful game” in any way you see fit. From slick passing moves to hard-tackling, crowd-pleasing exhibitions of individual skill to dogged, desperate defending, no other game can rival its ability to capture the essence and atmosphere of the real-life sport.
  
  
• “Sonic the Hedgehog” (Sega). “Sonic The Hedgehog” redefines his trademark speed for the most intense, high-velocity adventure yet! Blaze through enormous and exotic worlds with all-new custom moves and take on Dr. Eggman and his horde of robotic minions to rescue a princess in peril.
  
  
• “SUPERMAN RETURNS: THE VIDEOGAME” (EA). “SUPERMAN RETURNS: THE VIDEOGAME” challenges players to master Superman’s unrivalled powers to save Metropolis. Based on 60 years of DC Comics and the hit motion picture, “SUPERMAN RETURNS: THE VIDEOGAME” creates the ultimate open-world superhero experience. As the Man of Steel™, you’ll hone your unworldly super powers such as Flight, X-Ray Vision and Freeze Breath to fight villains that only Superman™ can defeat.
  
  
• “Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 07” (EA). In its latest instalment, “Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 07” brings realism and emotion to the golf course like never before, while players see and hear the crowds around them with enhanced playing environments. “Tiger Woods PGA TOUR 07” is packed with new content, including 12 courses, and the all-new UCAP technology makes Tiger more realistic than ever.
  
  
• “Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas” (Ubisoft). Rainbow operatives take to the chaotic streets of Las Vegas as an escalating terrorist siege in “Sin City” threatens to take world terrorism to new, uncontrollable heights. The future of global security hangs in the balance as you battle to defend classic Vegas locations and environments such as Fremont Street, the Strip and casinos.
  
  
• “Tony Hawk’s Project 8” (Activision). Re-engineered from the ground up for Xbox 360, “Tony Hawk’s Project 8” immerses players in the definitive skateboarding experience using ultra-realistic graphics, enhanced physics and extremely responsive controls that simulate the feeling of skating with every trick and bail. The game challenges players to experience the intensity and pressure of skating against some of the world’s top pros in true-to-life competitions as they aim to become the No.1 skater.
  
  
  Windows titles available for the holiday include these:
  
  
• “Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs” (Ensemble Studios). The new expansion pack for the best-selling real-time strategy game of 2005, “Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs” lets gamers of all ages enjoy 15 new missions leading the Native American civilizations as they expand their empires and fight for control of the Americas.
  
  
• “Flight Simulator X” (ACES Studio). The franchise that’s been flying high for more than two decades lets gamers of all ages and skill levels experience what it is like to be an aviator traveling the globe either solo or online with others. With more than 50 new missions to choose from, Windows aviators can pilot dozens of new aircrafts including the Aircreation 582SL Ultralight and Maule M7-260C Orion.
  
  
• “Neverwinter Nights 2” (Atari). Available this fall, “Neverwinter Nights 2”is the sequel to Atari’s best-selling and genre-defining role-playing game (RPG) set in the fantasy world of the Forgotten Realms, one of the popular campaign settings of Dungeons and Dragons. The game takes players from the tiniest of villages into a sweeping tale of danger and war, chronicling their rise from a peasant to a full-fledged hero of the Realms. More information can be found at http://www.nwn2.com.
  
  
• “Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania” (Blue Fang Games). Aspiring marine biologists can turn their dream zoo into an aquatic extravaganza with the “Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania” expansion pack. Care for 20 new marine creatures including great white sharks, giant squids and manta rays, build captivating tanks or create extraordinary aquatic shows featuring dolphins or killer whales.
  
  More Xbox 360 games announced or shown at X06 include these:
  
  
• “Assassin’s Creed” (Ubisoft). The new action title developed by an all-star team from Ubisoft Montreal. “Assassin’s Creed” delivers a truly next-generation experience with stunning visuals, compelling storytelling and never-before-seen crowd gameplay. Gamers will take on the role of a skilled assassin and shape events during the pivotal moment in the Third Crusade.
  
  
• “Crackdown” (Real Time Worlds). Real Time Worlds, led by “Grand Theft Auto” mastermind David Jones, pushes the action-driving hybrid genre into the next generation with a 3-D open-world, free-form playground. Experience highly innovative co-op gameplay and an interactive world where nearly everything can be used as a weapon.
  
  
• “Fable 2” (Lionhead Studios). In “Fable 2,” the sequel to “Fable,” the groundbreaking role-playing adventure, gamers can control the decisions of the characters and the resulting outcome. Gameplay will evolve to include the ability to choose your character’s gender and employ the use of firearms in combat.
  
  
• “Forza Motorsport 2” (Turn 10). “Forza Motorsport 2” roars into the next generation with more than 300 customizable cars and 60 frames per second of head-turning, high-definition gameplay. Plus you can race on real-world tracks from around the globe — from the famously challenging Nürbugring Nordschleife track to the spectator-lined streets of Rio de Janeiro.
  
  
• “Halo Wars” (Ensemble Studios). Expanding on the universe that made the “Halo” franchise so beloved, “Halo Wars” provides gamers with an unparalleled real-time strategy experience for the console that will showcase the power of Xbox 360. Players will command the human UNSC armies as they deploy for their first encounter with the evil Covenant forces.
  
  
• “Half-Life 2” (EA/Valve). “Half-Life 2” for the Xbox 360 system is the entire a
  ward-winning single-player game together with the first two episodes of the continued story. Research scientist Gordon Freeman finds himself on an alien-infested Earth being picked to the bone, its resources depleted, its populace dwindling. Freeman is thrust into the unenviable role of rescuing the world from the wrong he unleashed back at Black Mesa. And a lot of people — people he cares about — are counting on him.
  
  
• “Lost Planet: Extreme Condition” (Capcom). “Lost Planet: Extreme Condition” is a riveting sci-fi action shooter with intense cinematic gameplay set within the ruthless conditions of a war-torn ice covered planet. With a gripping single-player campaign and numerous multiplayer modes, “Lost Planet” promises to deliver an epic gaming masterpiece when it is released in January 2007.
  
  
• “Mass Effect” (BioWare). “Mass Effect” is set in an expansive, living universe and will deliver an immersive gameplay experience in which players are put in a position where they are the only person aware of an ancient danger that threatens all life in the entire galaxy. They must stop the threat at all costs, which can lead to morally challenging decisions. The science fiction RPG has racked up more than 30 awards and nominations and quickly becoming one of the must-have games of 2007.
  
  
• “Project Gotham Racing 4” (Bizarre Creations). An exclusive to Xbox 360, “Project Gotham Racing 4” promises to continue its pedigree of innovation by introducing exciting new driving experiences to racing fans throughout the world. Always setting a high standard and delivering on breakthrough technology for the Xbox® and Xbox360 platforms, “Project Gotham Racing 4” will deliver on new experiences that will delight gamers. The critically acclaimed “PGR” franchise has sold more than 4 million copies worldwide.
  
  
• The next game in the “Banjo-Kazooie” Franchise (Rare Ltd.). The beloved franchise from Rare returns as gamers reunite with Banjo, Kazooie, Gruntilda and a cast of new and returning characters for a new, exclusive adventure only for Xbox 360. Expect sharp wit, hilarious humour and next-generation visuals. The official title will be announced at a later date.
  
  Titles for both Xbox 360 and Windows titles announced or shown include these:
  
  
• “Alan Wake” (Remedy Entertainment). “Alan Wake” is a psychological action thriller from Remedy, the legendary and renowned developers of highly successful action titles. In this exciting new title exclusively for Windows Vista and Xbox 360, gamers assume the role of Alan Wake, a best-selling suspense author who escapes to a small town to recover from the mysterious disappearance of his fiancée.
  
  
• BioShock (2K Games). A revolution in the genre that will forever change the expectations for first-person shooters, “BioShock” will be released exclusively on Xbox 360 and Windows next spring.
  
  
• “Crossfire” (Eidos, Pivotal Games). This is the new first-person shooter from the award-winning developer Pivotal Games. “Crossfire” draws its inspiration from a group new to the gaming world: the CIA’s denied operations Special Activities Division. The action focuses on the exploits of two field operatives in an innovative approach to the military squad shooter.
  
  
• “Alone in the Dark” (Atari). The franchise that gave birth to the modern survival horror gaming genre, “Alone in the Dark” returns on next-generation platforms to deliver an edge-of-the-seat survival experience facilitated by state-of-the-art real-time physics and unparalleled environmental interaction within a meticulously detailed, open game world. Developed by Eden Games, “Alone in the Dark” will propel the survival horror genre into the future with the new level of available technology that allows for unprecedented advances in gameplay and unmatched action-orientated gaming experiences in wide-open environments.
  
  
• “Kane and Lynch: Dead Men” (Eidos, IO Interactive). “Kane & Lynch: Dead Men” is a violent and chaotic journey of two men — a flawed mercenary and a medicated psychopath — and their attitudes toward right and wrong. This volatile partnership combined with innovative technologies allow for an unparalleled gaming experience.
  
  
• “Marvel Universe Online” (Cryptic Studios). Microsoft, Marvel Entertainment and Cryptic Studios will be bringing Marvel’s epic world of Super Heroes to life in this highly anticipated massively multiplayer online video game. “Marvel Universe Online” will be exclusive to Xbox 360 and Windows Vista gamers, and as a cross-platform title, it will allow both platforms to experience the world together online.
  
  
• “Shadowrun” (FASA Studio). FASA Studio, the creative minds behind “MechWarrior” and “Crimson Skies,” are back with “Shadowrun,” the new cross-platform multiplayer first-person shooter based on the much-beloved role-playing game franchise. Up to 16 players can battle with a blend of modern weaponry and ancient magic for control of this new world through Xbox 360-to-Windows Vista online compatibility.
  
  
• “Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell Double Agent” (Ubisoft). Sam Fisher is back, but he’s never faced an enemy like this before. This time he must infiltrate and destroy a terrorist cell from within. For the first time ever, experience the relentless tension and gut-wrenching dilemmas of life as a double agent. Lie, sabotage, kill, betray. How far will you go to complete your mission? The next “Splinter Cell” title (Ubisoft). It’s official. The only place to play the next instalment in this series after “Splinter Cell Double Agent” is on Xbox 360. The “Splinter Cell” series never fails to deliver an incredible, immersive gaming experience that takes full advantage of Xbox 360, and this title will be no different.
  
  
• “World Series of Poker: Tournament of Champions” (Activision). Building on last year’s No. 1 poker title and No. 1 brand in poker, “World Series of Poker: Tournament of Champions” takes a story-based approach as you enter the Circuit as Chris “Jesus” Ferguson’s protégé. You’ll test your skill against more top pros than ever before as you compete in the premier Circuit Events. Your goal: qualify for the winner-take-all, invitation-only Tournament of Champions at the Rio Resort in Las Vegas and compete to be the World’s Best.
  
  Highly anticipated Windows titles announced or shown include these:
  
  
• “Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures” (Eidos/Funcom). Offering two gameplay options, “Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures” lets gamers choose between an online action-RPG with a deep, story-driven single-player experience or a massive and brutal multiplayer endgame, bringing to life the ultimate representation of the “Age of Conan.”
  
  
• “Halo 2” for Windows Vista (Bungie Studios). The battle lands on Windows Vista as the epic storyline unfolds with Master Chief standing as the only thing between the relentless alien Covenant and the destruction of all humankind. In addition, the “Halo” community can now create an unlimited supply of exciting multiplayer levels thanks to the exclusive “Halo 2” for Windows Vista Map Editor.
  
  
• “Hellgate: London” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). “Hellgate: London” is the first original title from premier developer Flagship Studios, whose team hails from such blockbusters as the Diablo, StarCraft and WarCraft series. Set in the near future, “Hellgate: London” introduces a world devastated by a demon invasion. Players are thrust into a desolate city scorched by hellfire where the survivors meld science and sorcery to gain a foothold against the minions of darkness and save the bloodline of humanity.
  
  
• “Rail Simulator” (EA). Coming to Europe. Release the brakes and drive contemporary and historical locomotives along four real-life routes, all re-created in stunning detail. This massively anticipated simulator lets you take the controls to drive in challenging scenarios or to your own timetable on the route of your choice. Indulge your creative skills by crafting your own routes, content and scenarios to play or exchange with other players. Your journey begins here!
  
  
• “The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar” (Midway). “The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar” lets players join in an epic adventure — exploring a massive online world while defending the lands of Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron. Players of all levels will explore incredibly detailed realms and join familiar characters in an evolving and persistent re-creation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved world. Gamers can adventure solo or choose from thousands of players online to forge their own fellowships. “LOTRO” is co-published by Turbine and Midway in North America and Codemasters Online Gaming in Europe.
  
  Xbox Live Arcade
  
  Yesterday, in a surprise unveiling, one of the greatest games of the 3-D era premiered on Xbox Live Arcade: “DOOM®” (id Software) is now available for 800 points. The game brings legendary DOOM mayhem to gamers, who for the first time ever can relive the classic demon-blasting fragfest in both single-player and two-to-four player cooperative and deathmatch modes over Xbox Live. Also, a new, multititle relationship with Codemasters was announced, with the first title being the classic, fast-action soccer game, “Sensible World of Soccer.”
  
  Xbox Live Arcade titles playing on the X06 show floor include frenzied music puzzle game “Lumines Live!” (Q? Entertainment Inc.), classic side-scrolling action shooter “Contra” (Konami), an original action shoot ’em up “Heavy Weapon: Atomic Tank” (PopCap Games), space-shooter “Gyruss” (Konami), arcade fighting favourite “Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3” (Midway), the multiplayer brawler “Small Arms” (Gastronaut Studios), the all-time coin-op classic “Defender” (Midway), the futuristic street-racing action game “Street Trace: NYC” (Gaia Industries), innovative action combat “Assault Heroes” (Vivendi Universal Games), and the frenetic shooter “Mutant Storm Empire” (Pom-Pom Games).

Day 1- X06 Recap

BARCELONA, Spain — Sept. 27, 2006 — On the shores of one of the world’s most artistic and progressive cities, Microsoft Corp. today thrilled attendees at its annual X06 event with announcements and gameplay experiences by inviting everyone to play the next generation now on the Xbox 360 system. The announcements highlight how the world’s greatest game creators are stretching the bounds of what’s possible in high definition and online storytelling and included the following:

• A landmark partnership announced between Academy Award-winning writer, director and producer Peter Jackson, Academy Award-winning screenwriter Fran Walsh, and Microsoft Game Studios will create two new interactive entertainment series exclusively for Xbox 360 and Xbox Live®. The first series will be a collaborative effort with Bungie Studios to co-create the next great chapter in the “Halo” universe. The second series will be an entirely original property targeted at bringing new audiences into the captivating world of interactive entertainment. In addition, Microsoft Game Studios will partner with Jackson and Walsh to establish Wingnut Interactive, a studio dedicated to the creation of world-class interactive entertainment.
  
  
• “Halo Wars” is an all-new real-time strategy game based on the legendary “Halo” universe and designed exclusively for Xbox 360 by Ensemble Studios, creators of the “Age of Empires” franchise.
  
  
• Rockstar and Take-Two announced they will provide Xbox 360 gamers with exclusive access to two downloadable, epic episodes of “Grand Theft Auto IV” via Xbox Live, each with hours of entirely new gameplay and available only on Xbox 360 just months after the release of the title.
  
  
• Ubisoft confirmed that the next “Splinter Cell” title, the next instalment in the series after “Splinter Cell Double Agent,” will be a console-exclusive on Xbox 360, a testament to the ability of Xbox 360 to deliver a complete experience no other console can match.
  
  
• 2K Games confirmed that “BioShock,” a revolution in the genre that will forever change the expectations for first-person shooters, will be released exclusively on Xbox 360 and Microsoft Windows next spring.
  
  
• “Project Gotham Racing 4,” the latest addition to the best-selling racing franchise from Bizarre Creations exclusively for Xbox 360, was unveiled. “Project Gotham Racing 4” promises to continue the “Project Gotham Racing” pedigree of innovation by introducing exciting new experiences to racing fans worldwide.
  
  
• The beloved “Banjo-Kazooie” franchise will breathe new, high-definition life on Xbox 360 exclusively from famed developer Rare Ltd.; astonishing next-generation visuals and presentation reunite beloved characters Banjo, Kazooie and Gruntilda — among other fan favourites — with their sharp wit and hilarious sense of humour.
  
  
• Microsoft Game Studios announced its highly anticipated new massively multiplayer online game, “Marvel Universe Online” for Xbox 360 and the Windows Vista operating system, developed by industry luminaries Cryptic Studios, creators of the smash hit “City of Heroes.”
  
  
• Two additions to Xbox Live Arcade were announced: the first-person shooter that pioneered the network-gaming era, “DOOM,” from acclaimed developer id Software and Activision, is available today for download via Xbox Live Arcade. The game includes the original four-episode, single-player game, four-player split screen (cooperative and deathmatch) and four-player cooperative and deathmatch over Xbox Live. Also coming to Xbox Live Arcade soon is “Sensible World of Soccer” from Codemasters. Based on the classic 1994 Amiga title, “Sensible World of Soccer” will let gamers choose between the original graphics or an updated, high-resolution look and feel — while still capturing the original’s entire world of football.
  
  
• Arriving at retailers in North America, the U.K, France and Germany in mid-November 2006, the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player will retail for $199.99 in North America (estimated retail price)* and €199.99/£129.99 (estimated retail price)* in the U.K., France and Germany. The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player comes with the Universal Pictures’ blockbuster film Peter Jackson’s “King Kong” on HD DVD (for a limited time) and the Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote.
  

“Xbox 360 is changing the way developers are telling stories today — from the industry’s most beloved franchises to exciting new properties,” said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business in the Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft.

“We are inspiring the imaginations of the entertainment industry’s best and most creative talent to take their franchises in exciting directions, while also spinning new tales for everyone.”“We are incredibly pleased to be here in Barcelona to talk about the next chapter of Xbox and how Xbox 360 continues to deliver on the promise and potential of the next generation,” said Chris Lewis, regional vice president of the Home and Entertainment Division, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), at Microsoft. “As we prepare to launch some of our biggest global titles and best regional content both right now and well into the future, consumers will have much to choose from with a system designed for high-definition and online entertainment. We are the only next-generation experience that seamlessly connects players to their games, friends and entertainment content.”

Xbox 360 Stretches Popular Franchises in New Directions

Xbox 360 continues to expand the interactive entertainment landscape, enabling industry superstars to take beloved franchises in exciting new directions. Microsoft Game Studios announced its partnership with Peter Jackson to herald in a new age of interactive entertainment that can only be realized on Xbox 360 and Xbox Live. The goal of this partnership is to create new stories and redefine the way they are told. The first part of this long-term relationship is for Jackson, Walsh and team to bring to life two new interactive entertainment experiences exclusively for the Xbox 360 and Xbox Live. The first project is to co-write, co-design and co-produce a completely new and original chapter in the “Halo” universe in collaboration with Bungie Studios. The second project is an entirely original property from the team in New Zealand that will not only bring a whole new interactive story to life, but will also captivate new audiences that have yet to discover the power of interactive entertainment.

In addition, in collaboration with Microsoft Game Studios, Jackson and Walsh are creating Wingnut Interactive. The two will create a world-class interactive entertainment studio that fuses the strength of Microsoft’s technology and interactive entertainment experience with the creative and imaginative excellence of the Wingnut Interactive team.“Microsoft has built an amazing living canvas with Xbox 360 and Xbox Live, which allows the storytellers of our time to express themselves in a new medium. They have fundamentally changed how people think about games,” Jackson said. “My vision, together with Microsoft Game Studios, is to push the boundaries of game development and the future of interactive entertainment. From a movie-maker’s point of view, it is clear to me that the Xbox 360 platform is the stage where storytellers can work their craft in the same way they do today with movies and books but taking it further with interactivity.”

In addition to demonstrating its leadership in the next-generation of games through exclusive alliances, Microsoft Game Studios announced “Halo Wars,” an all-new real-time strategy game based on the legendary “Halo” universe and built exclusively for Xbox 360 by Ensemble Studios, the creators of the “Age of Empires” series. “Halo Wars” places the player in command of human UNSC armies as they deploy for mankind’s first deadly encounter with the enemy Covenant forces.

In addition, Microsoft Game Studios provided first details surrounding “Project Gotham Racing 4,” the latest addition to the premiere racing franchise from Bizarre Creations and the reunion of Banjo, Kazooie and Gruntilda in an all-new addition to the “Banjo-Kazooie” franchise from industry veterans Rare.

Microsoft and Ubisoft announced that the next “Splinter Cell” title will be created exclusively for Xbox 360. Based on the increasingly proven potential of the Xbox 360 hardware and its online promise, Ubisoft confirmed that Xbox 360 will be the exclusive platform for the next iteration of its influential and massively popular espionage franchise. Through the power of Xbox Live, the series that revolutionized online cooperative and competitive gameplay promises to transform and modernize online gaming once again.

New details regarding the exclusive, epic episodic content for the upcoming and highly anticipated “Grand Theft Auto IV” from Rockstar and Take-Two were also revealed; Rockstar Games will offer two downloadable episodes, each with hours of entirely new gameplay, extending the experience of an already immense game. Both chapters will be exclusive and available only to Xbox 360 gamers via Xbox Live. “Grand Theft Auto IV” will be available to Xbox 360 gamers on its first day of availability: Oct. 16, 2007, in North America and Oct. 19, 2007, in Europe. Release dates for the two downloadable episodes are not yet announced.

Xbox Live Arcade made a surprise unveiling today of one of the greatest games of the 3-D era: “DOOM” (id Software) is now available for download for 800 points. The game brings legendary “DOOM” mayhem to gamers, who for the first time ever can relive the classic demon-blasting fragfest in both single-player and two-to-four player co-operative and deathmatch modes over Xbox Live. Also a new, multititle relationship with Codemasters was announced, with the first title being the classic, fast-action soccer game, “Sensible World of Soccer.”

Xbox Live is a thriving online game community, connecting more than 3 million members across nearly 25 countries to enjoy hundreds of social games, as well as on-demand game demos, Xbox Live Arcade games, and music and movie content. With more than 10 million downloads to date and nearly 100 independent, classic and original development titles available by next summer, Xbox Live Arcade is a fast-growing phenomenon.

Most Affordable Way for Xbox 360 Owners to Jump Into the Next-Generation of DVD

At X06, exciting details about the highly anticipated Xbox 360 HD DVD Player were also revealed. Available in mid-November 2006 in North America for $199.99 (estimated retail price)*, in the U.K., France and Germany for €199.99 (£129.99) (estimated retail price)* and other territories in 2007, the Xbox 360 HD DVD Player comes with the Universal Pictures blockbuster film Peter Jackson’s “King Kong” on HD DVD (for a limited time) and the Xbox 360 Universal Media Remote. Users can just add Xbox 360 HD DVD Player to Xbox 360 to create the ultimate home-theatre experience.“

The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player is the best high-definition movie experience and value on the market,” Moore said. “The reviews, the word of mouth and the consumer response have all been crystal clear — HD DVD is the format of choice. We’re not forcing movie technology on game players but are instead letting them choose how to personalize their experiences. If they want HD DVD, there’s no better value out there.”

The Xbox 360 HD DVD Player offers up to six times higher resolution than DVD, and as part of the Autumn 2006 console update all Xbox 360 consoles will have the ability to output native resolution 1080p games and movies. Users can enjoy blockbuster HD DVD releases, with more than 150 titles available by the holidays from major movie studios including HBO, Paramount Pictures, StudioCanal, Universal Studios, New Line Entertainment and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.The Industry’s Most Anticipated Titles Are Coming to Xbox 360

In addition to taking popular franchises in new directions, developers are finding new life through Xbox 360 with exciting new content and are delivering many of the industry’s most praised and anticipated titles.

Arguably the most anticipated title of 2006, “Gears of War” from Epic Games and Microsoft Game Studios is a third-person tactical action/horror game available exclusively on Xbox 360. “Gears of War” will be the only game to blend a deep and disturbing story of human survival against hordes of nightmarish creatures with a next-generation tactical combat system and unsurpassed visuals and special effects. “Gears of War,” which will be available Nov. 12, 2006, in the U.S. and Nov. 17, 2006, in Europe, has garnered numerous industry awards and accolades including the Game Critics Awards Best Console and Best Action Game of E3 2006, IGN’s E3 2005 Best Xbox 360 Game, and GameSpot’s E3 2006 People’s Choice Award.

From leading U.K.-based developer Rare and Microsoft Game Studios comes “Viva Piñata,” an original game concept and the latest innovative gaming experience for gamers of all ages and types. “Viva Piñata” invites gamers to create an immersive world where living piñatas inhabit an ever-changing environment. “Viva Pinata,” which has won several industry awards including Best Graphics from Nick Jr. Magazine and IGN’s Runner-Up for Best Strategy Game of E3 2006, is scheduled to be available this holiday.

Underlining the Xbox 360 platform strength, Microsoft and Ubisoft today confirmed that “Assassin’s Creed,” the eagerly anticipated action title set in medieval times, is also coming to Xbox 360 day and date with the game’s release on other platforms. “Assassin’s Creed” is a next-generation action-adventure/stealth title from the highly talented and critically acclaimed team that brought gamers “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time.” “Assassin’s Creed” will place gamers in the role of a ruthless and skilled Assassin as he tracks his victims through the historical era known as the Crusades.Last week at the Tokyo Game Show in Japan, “Lost Odyssey” wowed audiences with its incredible graphic style and epic storyline. From famed Japanese developer Hironobu Sakaguchi, “Lost Odyssey” will be shipped in Japan in 2007, and in the U.S. and Europe at a later date.

Few games have generated more interest than “BioShock” (2K Games) in the past year, and Microsoft confirmed today that the highly anticipated first-person shooter will be exclusive to Xbox 360 and Windows when it launches in spring 2007.Looking into the coming year, X06 showcased a montage video trailer demonstrating the dazzling power and versatility of the Xbox 360 platform, promising gamers a choice of titles and genres coming this spring season, including the Microsoft Game Studios titles “Crackdown” (Real Time Worlds), “Too Human” (Silicon Knights), “Mass Effect” (BioWare Corp.), and “Forza Motorsport 2” (Turn 10). In addition to these titles from Microsoft Game Studios, games from today’s leading publishers round out what is already a robust library of offerings for the Xbox 360 platform, including “John Woo Presents Stranglehold” (Midway), “Lost Planet: Extreme Condition” (Capcom) and “Pro Evolution Soccer 6” (Konami).

Microsoft underscored the continued momentum behind Xbox 360 with more than 5 million consoles sold since launch, the fastest console launch ever. Microsoft remains on track to deliver 10 million consoles worldwide, with a library of 160 games, by end of year. The Xbox Live community continues to grow and is on track to double in size to 6 million gamers by June 2007. Those numbers are supported by the most impressive number of all: Xbox 360 is now available in more than 30 countries since the console launched last November. By the end of this year, Xbox 360 will launch in even more countries, including South Africa and in Europe where plans are set in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland.Microsoft also provided attendees with an update on Games for Windows and announced several exciting new Games for Windows titles, including “Bioshock” and “Marvel Universe Online.” Starting this September with “LEGO® Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy” from LucasArts and “Company of Heroes” from THQ, games will carry the Games for Windows branding after meeting a set of technical guidelines designed to provide consumers with a consistent, reliable gaming experience on Windows XP and Windows Vista. The guidelines include easier game installation, improved reliability and support for key Windows Vista features such as the Games Explorer and Parental Controls. They will also support wide-screen gaming, will launch from within Windows Media® Center, be compatible with 64-bit consumer versions of Windows, and will support the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows (for games that enable gamepads).

Attendees were given a glimpse of the exciting upcoming Games for Windows titles including “Hellgate: London” (NAMCO BANDAI Games), ”Rail Simulator” (Electronic Arts) and “Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures” (Eidos/Funcom), as well as Microsoft Game Studios titles “Age of Empires III: The WarChiefs,” “Alan Wake,” “Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania,” “Flight Simulator X,” “Shadowrun,” “Halo 2” for Windows Vista and the newly named “Marvel Universe Online,” a massively multiplayer online game for Xbox 360 and Windows Vista from Cryptic Studios.

RF Online explodes onto a new plateau with the next free Giga expansion

Codemasters Online Gaming has today released the second major content expansion for RF Online, the epic sci-fi and fantasy MMORPG. The second Giga update is now available, free of charge, across all servers and will take RF Online to Giga 4.2.

Now more action packed than ever, RF Online will automatically patch in the new content giving players access to the new and previously uncharted player area, the Elan Plateau where players can pit their wits against all new monsters.

Also included in the update will be the Circle Zone Scramble, RF Online’s very own unique Guild versus Guild combat system that sees guilds battling to the death using an original set of sporting rules in a revolutionary new environment.

Expansion Contents:
· Elan Plateau: Unravel the secrets of a brand new area of the map with all new monsters and challenges.
· Circle Zone Scramble: Prove yourselves as a top guild and be rewarded with control of your own Settlement bringing with it status and financial rewards.
· Control the Neutral Zone: Raise your guild’s flag and take control of the neutral zone, economy and all.
· New Race Leader Voting System: The top players in each race now have the opportunity to run for race leader/Archon; other players vote for whom they want as race leader.
· Remodelled Cauldron Volcanic Map: The creatures of the Cauldron Volcanic have evolved and grown stronger bringing with them four brand new monsters.
· Experience and exPerT (PT) rates modified: Experience and PT gains from monster kills increased to aid levelling characters.
· New Items: News ring and amulets added for each race.
· Added functionality to Combination System: More weapons and items can now be added together in additional functionality to the crafting system.

Ed Blincoe, Product Marketing Manager at Codemasters Online Gaming, commented:
“To have Giga 4.2 live on our servers so soon after the last content update is an amazing achievement and RF Online’s loyal community will benefit greatly from this new update. We’re ecstatic with the changes being made and are confident that this will take RF Online to the next level.”

The expansion, Giga 4.2, is the final Giga expansion for RF Online and leads the game into the brand new “Episode 2” expansions due early next year.

RF Online is now operating in the US and Europe and is published and operated in the US and Europe by Codemasters Online Gaming. For all the latest on the game, including the latest images, movies visit www.rf-onlinegame.com

'Supreme Ruler 2010' wins 'Best PC Game' Award

Vancouver, Canada – PC Game Developer BattleGoat Studios is delighted to announce that their computer game "Supreme Ruler 2010" has won a Canadian Award for the Electronic and Animated Arts in the category of Best PC Game!

In accepting the award at the Vancouver ceremonies, Lead Designer David Thompson was particularly grateful to the beta testers who helped BattleGoat through many of their design decisions with this ambitious title. Afterwards Thompson said, "We worked very hard on this project to create a unique game and we will continue to develop in this direction - creating games that challenge the minds of our players."

In addition to the Best PC Game Award, Supreme Ruler 2010 was also finalist in the Best Innovation in Gaming Category, finishing behind Ubisoft's 'King Kong'.

FLYBOYS Squadron Free Demo Available for Download Today!

CARY, N.C.- September 14, 2006- iEntertainment Network, developer of the award-winning WarBirds TotalSims series, announced that a FREE Demo of their FLYBOYS Squadron Massively Multiplayer Game is now available for FREE download at http://www.flyboysgame.com/. The FLYBOYS Squadron single player offline game and MMOG is based on the upcoming MGM release of FLYBOYS, an Electric Entertainment film, to be released nationally in theaters on September 22nd 2006.

IENT will publish a retail game that combines the best of single player gaming with the opportunity to participate in a Massively Multiplayer Online game that puts the player in the pilot seat of many different World War I aircraft and allows the player to participate in exciting World War I era mission–inspired by the FLYBOYS movie—against hundreds of other WWI aviators over the Internet. These missions provide the opportunity to experience the thrill of close-in dogfighting action just like one of America’s first fighter pilots as depicted in the movie.

The FLYBOYS Squadron FREE MMOG Demo Download will allow players FREE access to online World War I flying with hundreds of other online game enthusiasts and aviators. When the full FLYBOYS Squadron game is released to retail on September 29th, 2006, Players will find many additional airplanes, terrain, weapons, and other features added to the full MMOG including: Airships, a fleet of Nieuport 17s personalized with the insignias of the individual characters in the movie, and new online missions based upon actual events occurring in the online aerial battles. Retail purchasers of the FLYBOYS Squadron game will also receive One Full Month of FREE Online MMOG flying excitement!

FLYBOYS:

FLYBOYS is directed by Academy Award winner Tony Bill (Producer of The Sting) and produced by Dean Devlin (Independence Day, The Patriot, Stargate) and Marc Frydman (Commander In Chief, The Jacket). James Franco (Spider-Man 1 and 2, Tristan & Isolde, Annapolis) stars with Martin Henderson (The Ring, Torque) and Jean Reno (The Pink Panther, The Da Vinci Code). An MGM release, FLYBOYS will open in the United States and Canada on September 22th, 2006.See: http://www.flyboysthemovie.com/

LMA Manager 2007 Demos For The PC & Xbox 360

Get in some pre-season training before it really starts to matter as Codemasters launches playable demos of LMA Manager 2007 for both the PC and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.

Ahead of the full game’s launch on September 22nd, the PC demo is now available to download from http://www.codemasters.co.uk/lma2007 . The Xbox 360 demo is available as a free download on Xbox Live Marketplace.

The fully-featured PC demo gives prospective managers a half-season run in the hot seat of a top division club from the game’s featured English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch or Portuguese playable leagues. Then build your squad, train them and see how far they can get in the space of 6 months. Some professional managers don’t even get that long!

In the Xbox 360 demo, players take charge of Liverpool in a prestigious European tie with Inter Milan at the new Wembley Stadium. This is a must-see spectacle in its own right, as the real life stadium is still under construction.

The demo starts on the match day screen where managers can tweak the squad and decide on their match-winning tactics before kick-off. Then, as the match plays out in the next generation of LMA Manager’s acclaimed interactive 3D Match engine, bring on substitutes, make cunning tactical changes and yell at the players on the pitch from the touchline with the dugout shouts feature.

Says John Jennings, Executive Producer of LMA Manager 2007:
“As the series moves to new formats it’s great to be able to give players the first opportunity to experience LMA Manager 2007’s massively expanded content, depth of play, unique rich visuals and interactive 3D match ahead of launch.”

LMA Manager 2007 launches for the Xbox 360 (Hard Drive not required), PC and PlayStation 2 on Friday, 22nd September. At launch, Codemasters will update the game further with a free stats download featuring all the latest season data. The download will be available online, via Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation 2 Net for the appropriate formats.

For all the latest on LMA Manager 2007, including videos and the PC playable demo, head over to the game’s microsite at www.codemasters.co.uk/lma2007

NOTES –
To access the demo via Xbox Live Marketplace the Family Settings option on Xbox 360 must be off. LMA Manager 2007 is PEGI rated 3+

A playable demo of the PlayStation 2 edition will run on Official PlayStation 2 magazine’s cover disc in November.

Gothic 3 Has Gone Gold In Europe!

Liezen, Austria, 14th of September 2006 - Finally, it`s done: The gold master of Gothic 3 has been completed and delivered to the production facility. Developer Piranha Bytes, Publisher JoWooD Productions and Co-Publisher Deep Silver will be delighted to release the game on the 13th of October, on schedule.

"Great Previews in the most important Special Interest magazines, an overwhelming number of preorders and a community consisting of more than 500.000 fans shows that this is a game that cannot be ignored. We are looking forward to the release of Gothic 3, and we are proud of what the developers at Piranha Bytes have accomplished during the last months", comments Stefan Berger, Senior Brand Manager JoWooD Productions, on the coming release of Gothic 3.

World's First MMORPG Golf Game Hits Shelves

Little Ferry, NJ – September 12, 2006 – SyNET Entertainment today announced that the world’s first full 3D, massively multiplayer online (MMO) golf game for PC, Shot-Online, has shipped to retail stores nationwide. Shot-Online combines the social aspects of an MMO role-playing game with the physics and play mechanics of a serious golf simulator. Shot-Online has an MSRP of $29.99 and is rated E for Everyone.

Shot-Online allows players to customize their in-game characters and build up their RPG statistics while competing against other golfers. With over 1 Million players already playing worldwide, Shot-Online delivers an unlimited level of gameplay and social interaction. With a realistic proprietary physics engine and golf swings motion captured from real KLPGA golfers, Shot-Online offers a real MMO golf experience without a subscription fee. Right out of the box, players get $20 of cybercash, entry into exclusive tournaments and a lottery ticket with a grand prize of a set of virtual golf clubs worth $100.

“Shot-Online not only simulates the game of golf, but the friendships and camaraderie that surround the game,” said Harry Rhim, president of SyNET Entertainment. “Players can enjoy the entire country club experience right from the comfort of their home computer!”

About Shot-Online

Shot-Online is the world’s first full 3D PC-online massively multiplayer golf game to combine elements of true golf simulation and role playing together in one. Incorporating elements of traditional role-playing enhanced by a proprietary physics engine for golf ball dynamics and interaction with eight challenging, varied golf courses, Shot-Online is a true sports role-playing game (RPG) that allows players to experience realistic golf simulation (geographical, physical, motional, and environmental factors such as wind, weather, and temperature), full 3D courses and characters, and a variety of camera views that make playing the game a truly immersive experience.

Atari Announces Neverwinter Nights 2 Limited Edition

NEW YORK, Sept. 13 - Atari, Inc., one of the world's most recognized brands and leading third-party video game publisher, today announced the special limited edition version of the highly-anticipated Neverwinter Nights 2. In development by Obsidian Entertainment, Neverwinter Nights 2 is set in the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Forgotten Realms universe created by Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc., and will transport players back to the embattled city of Neverwinter. DUNGEONS & DRAGONS is under license from the Hasbro Properties Group, the intellectual property development arm of Hasbro. Neverwinter Nights 2 Limited Edition, which includes various collectible items that further transport gamers into the Forgotten Realms universe, is available for pre-order at participating retail stores nationwide.

Neverwinter Nights 2 Limited Edition includes a robust array of detailed collectibles such as:

* A powerful new feat called Blessed of Waukeen will grant a bonus to all
saving throws, two special items, access to a unique weapon, and a
magical golden aura that surrounds players' characters.
* Detailed cloth map showing in-game locations
* Book of art, depicting characters and scenes from the game
* Two silver antique rings: Good & Evil

"The Neverwinter Nights 2 Limited Edition offers consumers extremely rich and unique collectibles that will further enhance the Neverwinter Nights experience," said Stephen Baer, Senior Product Manager, Atari, Inc. "Atari is pleased to include these specially-crafted items, such as the exclusive book of art, in the limited edition."

The Neverwinter Nights franchise has sold more than two million copies worldwide, is translated into 10 languages, sold in more than 40 countries and features one of the largest and most active fan communities in all of gaming. To date, fans of the franchise, which includes Neverwinter Nights, Neverwinter Nights: Shadows of Undrentide and Neverwinter Nights: Hordes of the Underdark, have created nearly 4,000 modifications to the original game using the original, award-winning Aurora Toolset. A more robust toolset will be included with the release of Neverwinter Nights 2.

Neverwinter Nights 2 is scheduled for release in October 2006. More information about Neverwinter Nights 2 can be found at http://www.nwn2.com , which includes user forums, project news, development updates and more.