Square Enix Reveals Preorder Incentives for Reincarnation of Classic Action-RPG Franchise





LOS ANGELES (February 3, 2011) Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of SQUARE ENIX interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that DUNGEON SIEGE III will be available at North American retailers on May 31, 2011. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Inc., the all-new incarnation of the classic action-RPG franchise will make its debut on high-definition home video game consoles alongside its familiar place on PC Windows-based machines. This May, players will experience the much-awaited next chapter in the DUNGEON SIEGE lore on the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows PC.

In DUNGEON SIEGE III, players assume the role of one of four heroes, fighting for the sake of their fallen comrades and to restore the land of Ehb. Conflict is constant in this action-RPG and decisions have lasting consequences, allowing players to alter the storyline. Choose to do battle as a lone hero or fight for honor in the co-op mode with up to three friends. Thanks to the robust AI, DUNGEON SIEGE III’s co-op multiplayer mode allows players to seamlessly drop in and out of battle without interrupting the action or impacting the campaign.

ds3_screenshot_001

Picture 1 of 11

In addition, Square Enix is offering exclusive incentives for players who preorder DUNGEON SIEGE III at the following retail outlets:

PREORDER PROGRAMS

GameStop

Receive two exclusive in-game items by preordering at GameStop

  • Burning Band of Scorch

This exclusive preorder in-game ring increases the raw damage of a player’s attacks and sets all foes ablaze with any weapon.

  • Talisman of the Grand Mage

This exclusive preorder in-game necklace reduces incoming damage on the player and grants the ability to lash out with a mystical attack that injures enemies in close-range combat.

Steam

Relive the classic DUNGEON SIEGE I and DUNGEON SIEGE II games as a gift with purchase through Steam

  • Players who prepurchase DUNGEON SIEGE III will get three games for the price of one, as Valve will offer single-player versions of both DUNGEON SIEGE I and DUNGEON SIEGE II as free downloads for PC platforms.

Amazon.com

Receive a limited preorder exclusive in-game ring

  • Bite of the Arakun

Grants the player the ability to poison enemies with lingering injury or soften their defenses, leaving them vulnerable for follow-up attacks.

Best Buy

Another exclusive preorder in-game amulet

  • Sacred Heart of the Legion

Increases a player’s health and pushes close combat assailants back each time the bearer is struck in battle.

Walmart

Mini-comic and strategy guide

  • Pick up the DUNGEON SIEGE mini-comic from Dark Horse Comics and a free mini-strategy guide from Prima Games with a preorder at Walmart.

“DUNGEON SIEGE has returned and it’s better than ever. We [Square Enix] have partnered with Obsidian to bring this critically acclaimed classic franchise back in an all new, re-imagined form,” said Ami Blaire, vice president of marketing at Square Enix, Inc. “With its heart-pounding action, epic lore and an endless variety of quests, DUNGEON SIEGE III is a must-have for any video game collection.”

Prepare to honor thy legion and reclaim the kingdom of Ehb in the ultimate DUNGEON SIEGE experience on May 31, 2011. For more information and to preorder now, visit: www.dungeonsiege.com.

About DUNGEON SIEGE III

Story

Torn asunder, the delicate balance of power between the kingdom of Ehb’s factions has fallen apart. As one of the few remaining members of the disgraced protectors of the land, the 10th Legion, it is up to you to rebuild the once great Legion and prevent Ehb from descending into darkness. Joined by a group of unique companions, you will travel through the striking land of Ehb defeating all manner of villains and beasts through a combination of heroic abilities, screen-shaking magic and pure cunning.

DUNGEON SIEGE III seamlessly blends intuitive action gameplay, a robust RPG system featuring a large selection of abilities, an extensive multiplayer component and the depth of story Square Enix and Obsidian Entertainment are known for creating.

Features

  • Experience DUNGEON SIEGE on high-def consoles for the first time.
  • Adventure solo or with friends in drop-in, drop-out co-op multiplayer.
  • Uncover a deep story that only Square Enix and Obsidian Entertainment can deliver.
  • Choose one of four highly customizable heroes with a wide range of abilities.
  • Recruit companions with unique personalities, abilities and views on the world around them.
  • Make weighty decisions that impact alliances, enemies and ultimately the storyline of the game.

DUNGEON SIEGE III is not yet rated. Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at www.esrb.org for more information about ratings. For more information about DUNGEON SIEGE III, please visit the official website at: www.dungeonsiege.com.




About Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX, EIDOS and TAITO branded entertainment content throughout the Americas as part of the Square Enix Group. The Square Enix Group operates a global network of leading development studios and boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property, including: FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 97 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST, which has sold over 54 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER, which has sold over 35 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS. Square Enix, Inc. is a U.S.-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
More information on Square Enix, Inc. can be found at http://www.square-enix.com/na.

About Obsidian Entertainment, Inc.
Obsidian Entertainment is an entertainment software development company passionately dedicated to making high quality role playing games for Windows PC and console systems. Obsidian was founded in 2003 by five game development veterans who’ve produced, programmed and/or designed award-winning role playing games for a variety of platforms over the last 15 years: Feargus Urquhart, Chris Parker, Darren Monahan, Chris Avellone and Chris Jones. Obsidian Entertainment’s Web site can be found at www.obsidian.net.

Bodacious, EGO-dosed action game brings over-the-top FUN and non-PC humor back to games



New York, NY – January 21, 2011—2K Games and Gearbox Software announced today what will be a landmark date in gaming history—legendary hero Duke Nukem will make his triumphant return in Duke Nukem Forever on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and Windows PC on May 3, 2011 in North America and May 6, 2011 internationally!

Duke Nukem is one of the biggest and most recognizable brands in the interactive entertainment industry. Irreverent, non-PC, and uber macho, Duke Nukem is the perfect, uncompromising ass-kicking hero to remedy the overdose of today’s gaming archetypes. Duke brings his signature brand of babe-lovin’, cigar-smoking, beer-chugging and ass-kicking action as he saves the Earth and its babes from hordes of invading aliens. Where will you be when Duke Nukem Forever launches? Better mark your calendars, Duke’s legend is being told this May and his brand new trailer, viewable at www.dukenukemforever.com, promises to blow your mind!

“The moment fans all over the world have been waiting for is almost here,” declared Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “May 3, 2011 marks Duke’s return as he unleashes his brash and brutally honest wit on the world. His return is going to be epic and one that will make video gaming history!”

Put on your shades and prepare to step into the boots of Duke Nukem, whose legend has reached epic proportions in the years since his last adventure. The alien hordes are invading and only Duke can save the world. Pig cops, alien shrink rays and enormous alien bosses can’t stop our hero from accomplishing his one and only goal: to save the world, save the babes and to be a bad-ass while doing it. The King arrives with an arsenal of over-the-top weapons, non-stop action, and unprecedented levels of interactivity. This game puts the pedal to the metal and tongue firmly in cheek. Shoot hoops, lift weights, read adult magazines, draw crude messages on whiteboards or ogle the many hot women that occupy Duke’s life – that is if you can pull yourself away long enough from destroying alien invaders. Duke Nukem was and will forever be a gaming icon, and this is his legend.

“When I said goodbye to 3D Realms and the original Duke Nukem 3D team in 1997 and soon after founded Gearbox Software, I never in my wildest dreams imagined that a day like today would come,” said Randy Pitchford, president of Gearbox Software. “Today I am proud, humbled and even astounded to announce that the day is coming at last for all gamers to be a part of video game history: Duke Nukem Forever will launch worldwide this May!”

Players looking to get access to the Duke Nukem Forever playable demo before it is publicly released can join the Duke Nukem Forever First Access Club. A membership certificate for the Duke Nukem Forever First Access Club is included within the Borderlands Game of the Year edition, where customers will be able to experience the definitive, value-packed collection of the critically acclaimed and best-selling Role-Playing-Shooter that has captured the imagination and attention of single-player and cooperative gamers around the world.

For more information on Duke Nukem Forever, including where to pre-order a copy, please visit www.dukenukemforever.com. Duke Nukem Forever is rated M for Mature by the ESRB.

2K Games is a division of 2K, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).




About Take-Two Interactive Software
Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a global developer, marketer and publisher of interactive entertainment software games for the PC, PlayStation®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii™, Nintendo DS™, iPhone®, iPod® touch and iPad™. The Company publishes and develops products through its wholly owned labels Rockstar Games and 2K, which publishes its titles under 2K Games, 2K Sports and 2K Play. The Company’s common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO. For more corporate and product information please visit our website at www.take2games.com.

About Gearbox Software
Gearbox Software is respected industry wide for the award winning, best-selling original and licensed video games they have developed for major video game platforms.  Founded in 1999 and located near Dallas, TX, Gearbox Software is well known for the creation and development of their original blockbuster franchise, Borderlands, and has developed numerous top selling add-on packs for Borderlands.  Additionally Gearbox now has ownership of the Duke Nukem franchise, created and developed the Brothers in Arms series and developed games and added value to many of the industry’s top franchises including Halo, Half-Life, Tony Hawk, James Bond and others.  Gearbox Software’s success has been enabled and supported through several key mutually beneficial business relationships with strong publishing partners including Activision, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft Entertainment, Microsoft Games Studios, Sega of America and Take-Two/2K Games.

The Highest Rated Game on Xbox 360 and PC in 2010 Comes to PS3, Including Six Hours of Bonus Missions and New Exclusive Mass Effect Genesis Interactive Comic



EDMONTON, CANADA – Jan. 18, 2011 – The time has arrived for PlayStation 3 owners to take on the role of Commander Shepard and to join his fight to save humanity! BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), announced today that Mass Effect 2 is now available on the PlayStation 3 for $59.99 in North America at retail and on PlayStation Network.* The PlayStation 3 version of Mass Effect 2, which received a perfect 10 out of 10 score from PlayStation: The Official Magazine, will include six hours of bonus content, including “Kasumi – Stolen Memories,” “Overlord” and the award-winning “Lair of the Shadow Broker.”



“The PlayStation 3 version of Mass Effect 2 offers gamers a great entry point to the Mass Effect experience,” said Casey Hudson, Executive Producer of the Mass Effect franchise. “We’re extremely excited and proud to now bring PlayStation 3 owners the opportunity to explore the rich and tumultuous universe of Mass Effect and shape the story and events within it by the individual choices they make.”

The Mass Effect trilogy is an epic science fiction adventure set in a vast universe filled with dangerous alien life and mysterious, uncharted planets. In Mass Effect 2, players will step into the role of the heroic Commander Shepard, commanding their crew of some of the most dangerous operatives from across the galaxy on a mission so challenging that it’s potentially suicidal. Featuring intense shooter action, a rich futuristic storyline, space exploration and emotionally engaging character interaction, the game delivers an unparalleled cinematic experience. Mass Effect 2 has received more than 120 awards, including 2010 Game of the Year honors from IGN.com, MSNBC.com, GameTrailers.com, Eurogamer.net, Game Reactor and G4TV, who praised it as “one of the best synergies of writing, role-playing, and combat.”

Mass Effect Genesis, an interactive comic from Dark Horse Comics and BioWare, will also be available today exclusively on the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, giving players a high-level overview of the events of the original Mass Effect. The interactive comic offers players the chance to make critical choices that will affect their storyline in Mass Effect 2 and beyond. Mass Effect Genesis is included in the Cerberus Pack, a downloadable content pack included for first time purchasers of Mass Effect 2 on PlayStation 3. Players who do not have original access to the Cerberus Pack can purchase it for $14.99 on the PlayStation Network.

Mass Effect 2 on the PlayStation 3 has a MSRP of $59.99 in North America, and it will be available in Europe on January 21, 2011. For more information, please visit http://masseffect.bioware.com/ and follow the development team at twitter.com/masseffect2 or at http://www.facebook.com/masseffect.


*Requires PlayStation Network account and Internet connection






About BioWare
BioWare develops high quality console, PC and online role-playing games, focused on rich stories, unforgettable characters and vast worlds to discover. Since 1995, BioWare has created some of the world’s most critically acclaimed titles, including Baldur’s Gate™, Neverwinter Nights™, Star Wars®: Knights of the Old Republic™, Jade Empire™, Mass Effect™ and Dragon Age™. BioWare operates in Edmonton (Alberta, Canada), Montreal (Quebec), Austin (Texas), Fairfax (Virginia) and Galway (Ireland). Currently announced projects at BioWare include the PlayStation 3 version of Mass Effect 2, one of the highest rated video games of all time, Mass Effect 3, Dragon Age 2, the highly anticipated sequel to 2009’s “RPG of the Year” Dragon Age: Origins, and the story-driven massively multiplayer online game, Star Wars®: The Old Republic™. In 2008, BioWare was acquired by Electronic Arts, a leading global interactive entertainment publisher. For more information on BioWare, visit www.bioware.com, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/biofeed. To join the millions of fans already registered on our community, go to http://social.bioware.com.

About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a leading global interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS™, EA™, EA Mobile™ and POGO™. In fiscal 2010, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.7 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million units. EA’s homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA’s products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
BioWare, Mass Effect, Dragon Age and Jade Empire are trademarks of EA International (Studio and Publishing) Ltd. EA, EA SPORTS, EA Mobile and POGO are trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. Xbox and Xbox 360 are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. PlayStation is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Sequel to FINAL FANTASY XIII Coming to Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 Next Winter





LOS ANGELES (January 18, 2011) Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of SQUARE ENIX interactive entertainment products in North America, today announced FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 for the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 is a sequel to FINAL FANTASY XIII, which released in North America in March 2010 and has shipped 6 million units worldwide.

“Why does mankind defy its fate?”

Production on FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 is underway, and builds upon the best aspects of FINAL FANTASY XIII. In particular, a brand new story and evolved battle system promise to stand out markedly against the standard for high-quality content established by the previous title.

Since the release of FINAL FANTASY in 1987, this unique RPG series continues to showcase the spectacular visuals, highly imaginative worlds and rich stories leading the industry and earning the highest accolades from users around the world. The series have so far achieved a cumulative shipment of over 97 million units worldwide (as of September 2010).

Product overview

Title:        FINAL FANTASY XIII-2

Platform:     PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Genre:       RPG

Release date:  Available Next Winter

MSRP:       TBD

Copyright:    © SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. All rights reserved. CHARACTER DESIGN: TETSUYA NOMURA

Website:      http://na.square-enix.com/ffxiii-2

Story summary from the previous title, FINAL FANTASY XIII

Cocoon – a utopia in the sky.

Its inhabitants believed their world a paradise.

Under the Sanctum’s rule, Cocoon had long known peace and prosperity.

Mankind was blessed by its protectors, the benevolent fal’Cie, and believed that tranquil days would continue forever.

Their tranquillity was shattered with the discovery of one hostile fal’Cie.

The moment that fal’Cie from Pulse – the feared and detested lowerworld – awoke from its slumber, peace on Cocoon came to an end.

Fal’Cie curse humans, turning them into magic-wielding servants.

They become l’Cie – chosen of the fal’Cie.

Those branded with the mark of a l’Cie carry the burden of either fulfilling their Focus or facing a fate harsher than death itself.

A prayer for redemption.

A wish to protect the world.

A promise to challenge destiny.

After thirteen days of fates intertwined, the battle begins.

FINAL FANTASY XIII-2 is not yet rated. Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at www.esrb.org for more information about ratings. For more information about FINAL FANTASY XIII-2, please visit the official website at: http://na.square-enix.com/ffxiii-2.




About Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX , EIDOS and TAITO branded entertainment content throughout the Americas as part of the Square Enix Group. The Square Enix Group operates a global network of leading development studios and boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property, including: FINAL FANTASY , which has sold over 97 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST , which has sold over 54 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER , which has sold over 35 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS . Square Enix, Inc. is a U.S.-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
More information on Square Enix, Inc. can be found at http://www.square-enix.com/na.

Sackboy’s Latest Adventure Provides Endless Fun for Fans While Redefining the World of User-Generated Content in this PLAY, CREATE, SHARE Sequel to the Award-Winning Franchise



FOSTER CITY, Calif., Jan. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. (SCEA) today announced the North American release of LittleBigPlanet 2, the sequel to the award-winning, multi-million unit selling hit LittleBigPlanet, exclusively for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system. Developed by Media Molecule, the same creative team that brought you LittleBigPlanet, LittleBigPlanet2 provides players a new means to PLAY, CREATE, and SHARE, with revolutionary gameplay mechanics that allow for a level of control and customization that has never been seen before. This franchise has always empowered players to CREATE their own levels with the same tool set used by the development team, but now with evolved creation abilities, players can not only make better levels, but completely new games across multiple genres. LittleBigPlanet2 also features a brand new storyline, a revamped graphics engine supplying stunning visuals, and added accessories and equipment to help Sackboy to make his way through this new world.

“Since the launch of LittleBigPlanet, our online community has uploaded over three million levels to the PlayStation Network, with creations popping up everyday that continue to amaze,” said Scott A. Steinberg, vice president, product marketing, SCEA. “With LittleBigPlanet 2, players now have the ability to create actual games across different genres, so it will be very exciting to see what our community can come up with. LittleBigPlanet 2 also boasts a brand new story mode for Sackboy to explore that, coupled with the millions of user-created levels online, provides an endless entertainment experience that can be enjoyed by the entire family.”

LittleBigPlanet 2 begins with a new story mode that provides a beautifully reshaped world for Sackboy to explore and PLAY. The campaign includes 40 story levels across six different themes; each level influenced by cultural high points in history and visually stunning when seen through the game’s revamped graphics engine. All of the new levels and territories to PLAY fuse different historical ideas together to create fresh aesthetics that populate this new world, with themes including: Techno Renaissance, Steampunk and Cake, Neon Propaganda, Fluffy High-Tech, Designer Organic, and Hand-made Arcade.

With the implementation of a new CREATE mode, the tools have evolved to allow users to make actual games, not just levels. Players can reset the controller buttons for any object and change the rules to any level using the Controlinator, and new multiplayer abilities advance the types of games possible for a social/competitive experience–imagine racing games, flying games, shooters, puzzle games, sports games, action/adventure games, and more.

And what would a LittleBigPlanet game be without new SHARE abilities. An enhanced SHARE experience will have gamers spending less time searching and more time playing the millions of levels and games created by fans around the world. With the unveil of LBP.me, a social networking website, every published online level/game will get its own webpage, so users can search/find creations while online at home/work, mark them, and have these favorites queued up and ready to PLAY when you return to your PS3 and sign onto PlayStation Network. Users will also be able keep an eye on what games/levels your friends are playing via activity steams, as well as link levels together to provide longer gameplay experiences without the breakup of going back to the ‘Pod.’

Sackboy will also have new tools and equipment to aid him on his journey, including a Grapple Hook for swinging across large gaps and pulling small objects towards you, the Grabinator for picking things up and throwing them, and the customizable Creatinator for Sackboy to carry and can spew out anything a creator desires.

Additional new features include the Music Sequencer, allowing players to compose their own musical score and connect in-game objects to your own custom tunes, a cinematic Cut-Scene Maker to create stand-alone movies or cut-sequences in levels, customizable Sackbots–interactive, programmable non player characters that bring the game to life, and of course a host of new CREATE materials and gadgets to satisfy any imagination.

LittleBigPlanet 2 offers four-player offline and online multiplayer, a host of fun and challenging trophies to collect, and is backwards compatible with LittleBigPlanet allowing players to access the more than three million online levels created with the original game. The Blu-ray disc will also include Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves–stand-alone bonus levels that support PlayStation Move. LittleBigPlanet 2 is a single or multiplayer creative gaming experience that has an ESRB rating of “E” for Everyone. For more information about the ESRB, click here. For more information about the LittleBigPlanet franchise, click here.

Acclaim for the LittleBigPlanet Franchise

Since its launch in October 2008, the LittleBigPlanet franchise has sold more than four million copies worldwide. It has been widely praised and critically acclaimed with more than 80 industry awards worldwide, 15 of which have been for Game of the Year categories, with awards ranging from the top gaming critics to prestigious organizations such as the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences (AIAS) and The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). The title has established the PLAY, CREATE, SHARE creative gaming genre and the game continues to grow and evolve, helped by the support of countless fans around the globe. The customizable nature of the unique PlayStation exclusive title allows players to alter characters and build entirely new objects and levels, then share and play them online as part of the LittleBigPlanet community. In fact, the sharing nature of the game has become so embraced, it has attracted fans to publish more than three million levels to the PlayStation Network since the award-winning game was released.




About Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation and PS one systems, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP (PlayStation Portable) handheld entertainment system, the ground-breaking PlayStation 3 (PS3) computer entertainment system and its online and network services the PlayStation Network and PlayStation Store. Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one, PlayStation 2, PSP, PSPgo and PS3 systems for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC serves as headquarters for all North American operations.

Visit us on the Web at http://globalmessaging2.prnewswire.com/clickthrough/servlet/clickthrough?msg_id=6786438&adr_order=723&url=aHR0cDovL3d3dy51cy5wbGF5c3RhdGlvbi5jb20%3D.

“PlayStation”, “PSP”, “PS one” and the “PS” Family logo are registered trademarks and “PS3″ is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. LittleBigPlanet ©2007 Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. Developed by Media Molecule. LittleBigPlanet is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. Sackboy is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC.

BIOWARE’S ACTION RPG MASS EFFECT 2 MAKES PLAYSTATION 3 DEBUT

The highest-rated game of 2010 comes to PS3 in January 2011



Cologne, Germany – August 17, 2010 – Today at GamesCom, BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), announced that Mass Effect 2, the highest rated game of 2010 for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system and PC*, is coming to the Sony PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system in January 2011. The PlayStation 3 edition will include the full Mass Effect 2 game and hours of bonus content, making this the perfect introduction to BioWare’s award-winning action RPG franchise.

Mass Effect 2 has already received over 70 perfect scores from media outlets such as the Associated Press, Eurogamer, MSNBC,com, G4TV and the Los Angeles Times, and is the highest rated game in the 15-year history of Bioware and the 28-year history of EA.

The Mass Effect franchise is an epic science fiction adventure set in a vast universe filled with dangerous aliens and mysterious, uncharted planets. In Mass Effect 2, PlayStation 3 players will step into the role of Commander Shepard for the very first time, leading a crew of the most dangerous special operatives from across the galaxy on a mission to save mankind. Featuring intense shooter action, a rich storyline, space exploration and emotionally engaging character interaction, Mass Effect 2 delivers an unparalleled gameplay experience.

Mass Effect 2 will be available for the PlayStation 3 in January 2011. For more information, please visit http://masseffect.bioware.com/ and follow the development team at twitter.com/masseffect2 or at http://www.facebook.com/masseffect.



* According to Metacritic.com.





About BioWare
BioWare develops high quality console, PC and online role-playing games, focused on rich stories, unforgettable characters and vast worlds to discover. Since 1995, BioWare has created some of the world’s most critically acclaimed titles, including Baldur’s Gate , Neverwinter Nights , Star Wars : Knights of the Old Republic , Jade Empire , Mass Effect and Dragon Age . BioWare operates in Edmonton (Alberta, Canada), Montreal (Quebec), Austin (Texas) and Fairfax (Virginia). Currently announced projects at BioWare include the development of ongoing downloadable content for Mass Effect 2, one of the highest rated video games of all time, Dragon Age 2, the highly anticipated sequel to 2009’s “RPG of the Year” Dragon Age: Origins, and the story-driven massively multiplayer online game, Star Wars : The Old Republic . In 2008, BioWare was acquired by Electronic Arts, a leading global interactive entertainment publisher. For more information on BioWare, visit www.bioware.com, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/biofeed. To join the millions of fans already registered on our community, go to http://social.bioware.com.

About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a leading global interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA SPORTS , EA , EA Mobile and POGO . In fiscal 2010, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.7 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million units. EA’s homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA’s products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.

Blur Is Fun, not Crucial

Activision’s new racing game, Blur, is semi-realistic and quite competitive. It’s mainly a game of power-ups and straight up fast driving. Depending on the type of competition, it can also be about blasting enough enemy cars in the given time. You pick up items as you’re driving to enhance your car’s capabilities. Power-ups include landmines, turbo speed, and repair. Blur is a fun game, though not what I’d call a must-have. The graphics get the job done, and the sound is good. Lest anyone call a racing game loner territory, or antisocial, Blur integrates with Twitter. You can press L1 to share your Blur achievements, which is pretty cool.

Dog’s rating: 7 out of 10

Harmonix, MTV Games Reinvent Music Games with Rock Band 3

Rock Band 3 features announced, including amazing soundtrack plus access to the most music available in any video game with more than 1,500 tracks and growing; new keyboard gameplay and three-part harmonies for up to seven players rocking together; Rock Band Pro Mode and much more!




CAMBRIDGE, MA and NEW YORK – June 11, 2010 – Harmonix, the world’s premier music video game developer, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom’s MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), today announced features for Rock Band 3, the next generation of the ultimate social and interactive music gaming platform.

Featuring an incredible 83-song setlist and access to far more music than any other music game, as well as innovative new gameplay modes and instruments, Rock Band 3 will change the way fans think about and play music games. This next iteration in the Rock Band platform has something new for everyone and also supports traditional Rock Band gameplay with players’ existing instruments.

The Most Music. Period.

The Rock Band 3 disc soundtrack contains 83 of the best bands from around the world, including bands that have never appeared in a music game, as well as support for existing Rock Band tracks (Rock Band and Rock Band 2 discs, downloaded songs, track packs, AC/DC Live: Rock Band Track Pack, LEGO Rock Band and Green Day: Rock Band).

Additionally, Rock Band 3 will give players immediate access to a music library approaching 2,000 songs by launch, with new content added regularly. Rock Band’s gigantic music selection dwarfs that of any other music game on the market.

Announced Tracks:


2000s:

  • Metric, “Combat Baby”
  • Rilo Kiley, “Portions for Foxes”
  • Them Crooked Vultures, “Dead End Friends”
  • The Vines, “Get Free”
  • The White Stripes, “The Hardest Button to Button”
  • Phoenix, “Lasso”
  • Ida Maria, “Oh My God”
  • Juanes, “Me Enamora”


1990s:

  • Jane’s Addiction, “Been Caught Stealing”
  • Smash Mouth, “Walkin’ on the Sun”
  • Spacehog, “In the Meantime”
  • Stone Temple Pilots, “Plush”


    1980s:

    • Dio, “Rainbow in the Dark”
    • Huey Lewis and the News, “The Power of Love”
    • Joan Jett, “I Love Rock and Roll”
    • Night Ranger, “Sister Christian”
    • Whitesnake, “Here I Go Again”
    • The Cure, “Just Like Heaven”
    • Ozzy Osbourne, “Crazy Train”


    1970s:

    • Queen, “Bohemian Rhapsody”


    1960s:

    • Jimi Hendrix, “Crosstown Traffic”
    • The Doors, “Break On Through”

    Redesigned Library for Better Music Management

    Rock Band 3 allows players to create and save setlists and share them with friends, both in-game and through RockBand.com. New song filters make it easier to find the types of songs fans want to play and hide the songs they don’t, while a built-in song recommendation system will suggest tracks from Rock Band’s colossal music library, based on personal fan preference.

    Expand the Band

    In addition to guitar, bass, drums and solo vocals, Rock Band 3 adds three-part vocal harmonies that were introduced with The Beatles: Rock Band and, for the first time ever, a keyboard peripheral to the band. Up to seven players can rock together for the ultimate social gaming experience.

    Go Pro: Play Just for Fun or Rock for Real with Rock Band Pro

    Rock Band 3 empowers players to develop actual musical skills through the fun of fully scalable Rock Band Pro gameplay. Fans can dive in on Easy to try out basic skills and work their way up to Expert for real mastery.

    • Pro Drums supports three expansion cymbals, with gameplay differentiation between toms and cymbals.
    • Pro Keys features pitch-accurate keyboard performance across a two-octave range, displayed on an easy-to-read keyboard track.
    • Pro Guitar features notated guitar and bass performances, available for play with either the new Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar simulated guitar controller from Mad Catz or the Rock Band 3 Squier by Fender Stratocaster Guitar Controller that is a real guitar/controller hybrid. The Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster is a fully functional, full-sized, six-string electric guitar that also functions as a game controller.

    Something for Everyone (New Gameplay Modes!)

    For the casual player, Rock Band 3 has great new party modes that allow fans to get rocking with friends quicker than ever, including party shuffle and persistent drop-in/drop-out and difficulty selection from any gameplay screen.For the serious player, the revamped Career Mode features 700+ goals and rewards and seamless leaderboard integration for an endlessly deep campaign experience. Rock Band 3 also adds a suite of social networking tools to the game so fans can engage friends and fellow rockers over Facebook, Twitter and more. Whether players want to jump in for a quick song or take their band to the top, Rock Band 3 has a mode for everyone.

    Developed by Harmonix, the world’s premier music videogame company, published by MTV Games, and distributed by distribution partner Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), Rock Band 3 will ship simultaneously worldwide this Holiday 2010 in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other territories for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system, the Wii system from Nintendo, and Nintendo DS. Rock Band 3 will be compatible with all Rock Band and The Beatles: Rock Band peripherals, as well as most third-party instrument and microphone controllers. Mad Catz is the official peripheral manufacturer and distributor for Rock Band game controllers.

    The Rock Band platform stands next to none in music content, with more than 1,500 songs already available from more than 400 artists, including Jimi Hendrix, The Who, AC/DC and Green Day, who are exclusive to Rock Band. With more choices for fans than any other music-based videogame, Rock Band is, without question, the industry leader in providing the best selection of interactive musical content, songs and artists. Rock Band pioneered offering content in a variety of ways, through on-disc gameplay, game export, downloadable content and the Rock Band Network. The Rock Band platform allows fans to interact with their favorite music in a unique and hands-on way, as well as giving artists the ability to reach fans through a whole new channel.




    About MTV Networks
    MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company’s portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 350 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Noggin, The N, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, Atom, Gametrailers and Xfire.

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

    About Harmonix Music Systems, Inc.
    Harmonix Music Systems, Inc., based in Cambridge, MA, and established in 1995, is the leading developer of groundbreaking music-oriented videogames. Harmonix was founded by Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy, who formed the company to invent new ways for non-musicians to experience the unique joy that comes from making music and have pioneered music and rhythm gaming in the US. For more information please visit www.harmonixmusic.com.

    About Electronic Arts
    Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a leading global interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA, EA SPORTS, EA Mobile and POGO. In fiscal 2010, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.7 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million units. EA’s homepage and online game site is www.ea.com. More information about EA’s products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.

    About Mad Catz Interactive, Inc.
    Mad Catz is a leading global provider of innovative products for the interactive entertainment industry. Mad Catz develops and markets accessories for videogame systems and PCs under its Mad Catz (casual gaming), Saitek (simulation), Cyborg (pro gaming), Eclipse (home and office) and Tritton (gaming audio) brands. Mad Catz also operates e-commerce and content websites for videogame and PC products under its GameShark brand, develops, manufactures and markets proprietary earphones under its AirDrives brand, and publishes and distributes video/PC games. Mad Catz distributes its products through most of the leading retailers offering interactive entertainment products and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia. For additional information please go to www.madcatz.com, as well as www.store.gameshark.com, www.saitek.com, www.cyborggaming.com, www.eclipsetouch.com, www.trittontechnologies.com, www.gameshark.com and www.airdrives.com.
  • Capcom Redefines the Fighting Game Genre Again as Super Street Fighter IV Is now Available in North America

    The follow-up to one of 2009’s highest-rated games features 10 new characters, new ultra combos, new stages, enhanced online play and much more, for $39.99.



    SAN MATEO, CA — April 27, 2010 — Capcom, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced Super Street Fighter IV, the ultimate vision of Street Fighter, is now available in North America for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation3 computer entertainment system. The follow up to one of Metacritic’s highest-rated games of 2009, Super Street Fighter IV features 10 new characters, new Ultra Combos, new stages, the return of Bonus Stages, and beefed-up online modes (including the free Tournament Mode DLC after launch) all for a low price of $39.99.

    Super Street Fighter IV features the full roster of 25 characters from Street Fighter IV such as Ryu, Ken, Crimson Viper, Abel, El Fuerte, and Rufus, while adding 10 characters new to the world of Street Fighter IV. The impressive new roster includes classic combatants from previous Street Fighter games including Dudley, Ibuki, Makoto, Guy, Cody, T. Hawk, Dee Jay and Adon, as well as all-new characters to the series such as the mysterious and deadly Korean fighter Juri and the over-the-top oil wrestler Hakan.

    Super Street Fighter IV adds new Ultra Combos for every character and advancements to the online matchmaking and online gameplay introduced in Street Fighter IV, including new modes Team Battle, Replay Channel, and Endless Battle. This will be followed by the all-new Tournament Mode, coming as a free download in June 2010, which will determine the best players in the world as Street Fighters compete online for unique Championship Titles.

    For more information about Super Street Fighter IV, including screens, art and video, visit Capcom’s official press site at www.press.capcom.com.

    ssfivtourneyscreen_14e

    Picture 1 of 5



    Ed. note: We’ll meet you at the Pepper Pot…




    About Capcom
    Capcom is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment for game consoles, PCs, handheld and wireless devices. Founded in 1983, the company has created hundreds of games, including best-selling franchises Resident Evil®, Street Fighter®, Mega Man® and Devil May Cry®. Capcom maintains operations in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Korea, with corporate headquarters located in Osaka, Japan. More information about Capcom can be found on the company web site, www.capcom.com.

    LEGO Indiana Jones 2 Whips Its Way To Retail



    SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – November 17, 2009 – LucasArts and TT Games today announced that LEGO® Indiana Jones™ 2: The Adventure Continues is now available for Wii™, Nintendo DS™, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, Xbox 360®video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows.

    Developed by the same team at Traveller’s Tales that created the award-winning LEGO® Indiana Jones™: The Original Adventures and the LEGO® Star Wars™ series, LEGO Indiana Jones 2 presents a tongue-in-cheek take on all four cinematic adventures of pop culture’s most iconic archaeologist, including for the first time ever Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Players will also get to experience all-new re-tellings of the classic movies, with new objectives and brand new levels, including devious boss fights and white knuckle chase scenes. Fans can also fight the powers of evil with Indy’s newly enhanced whip and interact with worlds filled with more objects and enemies than ever before.

    For the first time ever, players can also craft their own unique LEGO adventures with the Build Your Own Adventure mode. Gamers can create unique levels using the same tools TT Games use to assemble unique LEGO levels, complete with a wide array of set pieces, including interactive objects, characters and even the ability to raise and lower the terrain. For added authenticity, created levels can even be combined with existing levels in the game, resulting in a personal and highly customizable way to expand the LEGO® Indiana Jones™ 2: The Adventure Continues gameplay experience.

    For more information on LEGO Indiana Jones, please visit http://www.lucasarts.com/games/legoindianajones2/.

    About LucasArts
    LucasArts, a division of Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd., is a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment software worldwide for video game console systems, computers and the Internet. Based in San Francisco, Calif., as well as on the Internet at www.lucasarts.com, LucasArts was created in 1982 by George Lucas to provide an interactive element to his vision of a state-of-the-art, multifaceted entertainment company.
    About TT Games
    TT Games aims to become a leading developer and publisher of interactive entertainment for young gamers and their families. Based in the UK, the Group incorporates the TT Games Publishing organisation with world-renowned developer Traveller’s Tales, and subsidiary studio TT Fusion. The first title to come from the TT Games partnership was the award winning LEGO Star Wars: The Videogame, which won over audiences both young and old alike, achieving critical acclaim rarely matched for a title aimed at children. For more information, visit www.ttgames.com <http://www.ttgames.com/> .
    About The LEGO Group
    LEGO Systems, Inc. is the North American division of The LEGO Group, a privately-held, family-owned company based in Billund, Denmark, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of creatively educational play materials for children. The company is committed to the development of children’s creative and imaginative abilities, and its employees are guided by the motto adopted in the 1930s by founder Ole Kirk Christiansen: “Only the best is good enough.” Visit the virtual LEGO world at www.LEGO.com.
    Indiana Jones™ and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.
    LucasArts and the LucasArts logo are registered trademarks of Lucasfilm Ltd. ©2008-2009 Lucasfilm Entertainment Company Ltd. or Lucasfilm Ltd. & ® or TM as indicated. All rights reserved.
    LEGO, the LEGO logo and the Minifigures are trademarks of The LEGO Group. © 2009 The LEGO Group.
    “PlayStation”, “PS” Family logo and “PSP” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo™ may be required (sold separately).Wii and Nintendo DS are trademarks of Nintendo.

    WordPress Appliance - Powered by TurnKey Linux