GameZ Planet!

Xbox 360 Review: Sneak King

2008-01-15T07:55:00.017-08:00

Solid Snake. Sam Fisher. The King. What do they have in common? Yes, they’re all sport some pretty slick outfits, but now with the release of Sneak King for the Xbox systems, The King gets to join the ranks of silent stealth operations. Unfortunately for gamers, The King opted to leave his knives and guns at his castle and stars in a no-frills, frustrating title with little to no replayability.

Out of the three Burger King games now available at the restaurants, Sneak King is the one that focuses solely on the burger chain’s beloved mascot as he sneaks around various locations, a la his commercials, and stalk hungry people in order to deliver BK treats to them. From lumberyards to the downtown streets, no citizen’s hunger is to go unchecked and it’s up to you to see that The King is able to deliver the goods.

Not only can The King tiptoe his way behind an unsuspecting diner, but he can also take advantage of a number of hiding places from which he can pop out of with sandwich or side dish in hand. If people go hungry for too long, however, they will pass out and collapse, which in some cases causes your current mission to end.

Variables such as how close you are to a person when you feed them, how hungry they are, whether or not you are hiding and more are taken into account and multiplied with a chain combo, which extends for every delivery you make unnoticed. The game throws a total of 80 challenges at you ranging from "do this within X minutes," to "serve X amount of people while in hiding spots," etc.

Completing all 80 challenges unlocks a sneaking suit, but don't expect Metal Gear out of this title. Tedious game play and some shoddy mechanics are definitely going to turn many players away from what is easily the weakest title in the BK lineup.

The first aspect of the game many 360 owners will notice right off the bat is the less than stellar graphics, which is likely due to the fact the game also plays on the Xbox. The graphics are passable for an Xbox title but when combined with generic environments, repetitive bare-bones “customers” with stiff animations and routes and a sometimes awkward camera, Sneak King isn’t too much of a treat to look at.

It seems most of the attention to detail went to The King himself. He is noticeably more detailed than any other aspect of the game and while running; his cape features some decent fluid animations.

To even further dull down the presentation, the music is extremely generic, repetitive and forgettable. Xbox 360 users, though, will have access to the custom soundtrack feature in order to mask over the dreary, soft tunes that loop through the stages. Most of the sounds heard in the game are from the ambience of whatever environment you are in at the time – birds chirping, saws spinning, construction equipment, etc. If you get close enough, you can hear people talking in a manner that can only be compared to Simlish (i.e. nonsense).

The controls get the job done and feature solid performance that gets The King to where he needs to be. The real problem lies within the camera controls that easily get stuck on walls, creating a huge number of blocked views, most especially while hiding.

There’s nothing more to the game play than what I’ve already described – the entire game is nothing but sneaking up behind people and giving them surprise helpings of Burger King products. That concept alone gave me a definite “WTF?” moment when I first heard it, as it isn’t the most appealing concept in the world. Why recreate World War II, go on massive fantasy quests or battle enemies in hand-to-hand fighting when there’s food delivery games to be played? Being so, Sneak King is so absurd that it ends up being somewhat compelling to where you just can’t stop after a few mere deliveries.

Those playing the title in the 360 will benefit from at least one play through thanks to the mostly-easy achievements to add to your Gamerscore. However, with no multiplayer, online capabilities or huge in-game rewards, there is no reason to give Sneak King another play once you’ve had your fill. Unfortunately for some people, a few minutes may be all they’ll need for that.

Most of the time, avoiding sight isn’t too hard thanks to the narrow vision cones placed directly in front of your customers. Most of your danger stems from people other than your target that is positioned off screen. You can literally walk directly beside someone and not be seen.

However, the people all follow a set path repeatedly and make jerky turns thanks to their stiff animations that can reveal The King with no time to react. This can make Sneak King nothing more than trial and error, which is doubly frustrating seeing as some of the later missions can take 20-30 minutes to complete. If you have to start such a mission over, you’ll have to devote yet another 20-30 minutes to the cause.

With 20 missions per level and not too much variety through each one, playing through the game seems like the same mission over and over. The tedious nature of the game mixes with the lackluster presentation and creates a game that isn’t to be taken seriously. Sneak King is good for a few laughs, food for curiosity and perhaps a couple of achievement points but nothing else – even at a $4 price tag.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Conan MMO Confirmed for Xbox 360 - Next Generation

2008-01-15T07:55:00.015-08:00

Conan MMO Confirmed for Xbox 360
Next Generation, CA - 27 minutes ago
By Kris Graft. The highly anticipated, formerly PC-only MMO Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures has been green-lighted for development on Xbox 360. ...
Age of Conan Confirmed for Xbox 360 TeamXbox (press release)
all 3 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Microsoft Ships Free Xbox 360 Developer Tool - WinInformant.com

2008-01-15T07:55:00.013-08:00

Playfuls.com

Microsoft Ships Free Xbox 360 Developer Tool
WinInformant.com, OH - 35 minutes ago
This week, Microsoft shipped its Xbox 360 game developer tool, the XNA Game Studio Express. The product, which allows anyone with ...
Microsoft releases XNA Studio Express GameSpot
XNA Game Studio Express 1.0 Released MyGen
XNA Game Studio Express Released Hard OCP
Portal IT - Crave
all 62 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

PS3 console sales in Japan top Xbox 360 - Pro-G

2008-01-15T07:55:00.011-08:00

Playfuls.com

PS3 console sales in Japan top Xbox 360
Pro-G, UK - 2 hours ago
After only a month on sale in Japan, the PS3 has sold more units than Microsoft's Xbox 360. ... However, things aren't quite all over for the Xbox 360 in Japan. ...
Xbox 360 meets PS3, and it's ready to rumble CNET News.com
PS3 storms ahead of 360 in Japan MCV
Should you buy a Wii or an Xbox 360… or wait for the PS3? about-electronics.eu
AZ Central.com - University Times
all 76 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

MS Takes 360 On The Road To Take On PS3 - Kotaku.com

2008-01-15T07:55:00.009-08:00

DM News

MS Takes 360 On The Road To Take On PS3
Kotaku.com, NY - 6 hours ago
Microsoft is sending some corporate Xbox 360 evangelists on the road, ready to do a side-by-side comparison throwdown with Sony's PS3. ...
It’s mortal combat to find the season’s new game systems DM News
Iwata: "Not Thinking About Competing" Kotaku.com
all 4 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Xbox Live Vision - Xbox 360 - Pocket-lint.co.uk

2008-01-15T07:55:00.007-08:00

Xbox Live Vision - Xbox 360
Pocket-lint.co.uk, UK - 11 hours ago
... Like the EyeToy, the Live Vision is basically a webcam that connects to your Xbox 360 allowing other people around the world to tune in and see what you look ...
Corel Paint Shop Pro XI - PC software Pocket-lint.co.uk
all 2 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Alien Might be Headed to the Xbox 360 - Planet Xbox 360

2008-01-15T07:55:00.005-08:00

Game News

Alien Might be Headed to the Xbox 360
Planet Xbox 360, MI - 32 minutes ago
by Nelson Rodriguez. Sega and Twentieth Century Fox today announced a worldwide exclusive agreement to bring game content based on ...
Sega to hatch Alien games on PS3, Xbox 360 Punch Jump
Aliens RPG and FPS coming to Xbox 360 myXBOX360.com
Next-gen Aliens shooter, RPG coming in 2008 GamePro.com
Cinematical
all 42 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Pimp Your Xbox 360

2008-01-15T07:55:00.003-08:00

By Author: John Lin

You can now pimp your ride with the Xbox 360.

MTV's Pimp My Ride was launched by Activision Publishing for the Xbox 360 today. It was already available on PS2.

"We are thrilled to bring the signature style from our hit show, Pimp My Ride, to the world of video games," said Tony Calandra, Senior Director at MTV Games, "It is great for us to see the evolution of the franchise that helped to put car customization and culture on the map, and now fans of Pimp My Ride will be able to experience and enjoy it from their own homes in an exciting and fun, new way."

The game takes place in Pimp City, made up of five free-roam boroughs such as New Wave Beach, Hip-Hop Heights and Downtown Metro. It offers an MTV generation backdrop of urban music, art and sound. Players customize cars, picking the mods, tricking out tires and rims and hooking up bumpin' subwoofers and flat panel TVs. Bragging rights and street cred go to the one that has the most style skilz in transforming broken down beaters into pimped out racing masterpieces.

"Pimp My Ride allows gamers to experience all the fun of MTV's popular television program with a heart-pounding racing element," said David Oxford of Activision Publishing, Inc., "Players test both their customization and driving skills by creating and racing the coolest rides in authentic neighborhoods and dynamic environments with tons of suppliers and hundreds of parts."

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

ReelTime offers Download-To-Own movies to XBox 360

2008-01-15T07:55:00.001-08:00

The service is aimed at those who would rather watch movies on their widescreen TV and surround sound in the lounge room rather than their computer hidden away in the study at the other end of the house. Customers with Microsoft XP Media Centre Edition and an XBox 360 connected to their television, can watch movies directly on the TV from the XBox 360. The Xbox 360 can be connected to the PC via cable or wireless.

"With over 100,000 Xbox 360s already sold in Australia and positioned near the family television set, ReelTime has
provided our customers with a further technology option to solve the TV-in-the-lounge-room versus PC-in-the-study challenge. WiFi-enabled XBox’s can now receive their movies from the PC, with little effort to set up," says ReelTime managing director John Karantzis.

The announcement follow's ReelTime recent introduction download-to-own movies available the same day as they hit the retail shelves. The downloaded movies are be available in three formats: a Windows Media format for PC viewing, a Plays4Sure Windows Media format for portable devices (but not the Zune or iPod) and compressed VOB files for burning to DVD. The latter can be burned three times to DVD within thirty days, while playback of the Windows Media files is limited to the MAC address of the devices they are downloaded to.

Combined, the files make a heft 4GB download - which would take almost a day on a 512 Kbps connection at full speed. Thankfully more than one hundred ISPs don't count data downloaded from ReelTime, including Netspace, People Telecom and Westnet. Noticeably absent are Telstra and Optus, which run 10 Mbps cable broadband networks that would make downloading movies far more practical. Major ADSL2+ provider iiNet is also missing.

ReelTime is one of a growing number of providers attempting to discover the perfect video download formula. Video Ezy has starting a three month "electronic rental download service" in Sydney, with the aim of rolling out the service nationwide in 2007. It's only a "download" service in that you can go to the store and "download" up to 40 movies onto a portable USB storage device such as an iPod, take them home and play them on their TV via a special Home Media Centre you have to buy from Video Ezy first. You don't pay for movies until you watch them, but payment requires broadband or dial-up internet access. If you don’t have internet access the HMC can be fitted with a modem that connects to the GSM mobile phone network.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

More MCR For Guitar Hero 2 On Xbox 360 - dBTechno

2007-08-15T11:59:00.005-07:00

dBTechno

More MCR For Guitar Hero 2 On Xbox 360
dBTechno, MA - 24 minutes ago
Toronto - You can now start shredding along to more My Chemical Romance on the Xbox 360. A new song pack download on Xbox Live is made up of 3 MCR songs. ...
Xbox 360 to get memory shrink: cooler, but mostly cheaper Ars Technica
Are consoles taking over gaming, or just catching up? We investigate Ars Technica
all 3 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Pokemon tackles Xbox 360 Madden NFL 08 at retailer - Punch Jump

2007-08-15T11:59:00.003-07:00

Pokemon tackles Xbox 360 Madden NFL 08 at retailer
Punch Jump, CA - 30 minutes ago
s Xbox 360 on Wed. following a discount that spurred sales for the latest Pokemon title at Amazon.com. Pokemon Pearl on Wed. morning held the No. ...
GameFly Requests Again Topped By BioShock, 360 Gamasutra
New 'Madden NFL' Kicks Off Season CNNMoney.com
all 5 news articles

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News )

Codemasters Announces Games Convention 2007 Lineup

2007-08-15T11:59:00.001-07:00

Codemasters' table is set for a stellar showing at this year's Games Convention 2007 in Leipzig, Germany.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Video Game Industry News)

Clive Barker's Jericho - PS3 (RP)

2007-08-15T09:46:00.005-07:00

A spectacular, creative, and unflinching realisation of a Clive Barker nightmare for next-gen console platforms and PC, Clive Barker’s Jericho is a new supernatural horror concept with story by the master mythmaker, novelist and filmmaker Clive Barker.

Jericho deals with the mysterious reappearance of a lost city in a remote desert. When a form of evil that goes right back to the dawn of days resurfaces from there, a Special Forces squad, trained in both conventional warfare and the arcane arts, is sent in. Their mission: Hunt down and destroy the evil that lurks at the heart of the city before it destroys humanity.

Clive Barker’s Jericho is designed as an action horror title that will up the stakes in visuals and phantasmagorical special effects. Mingling the darkest elements of Barker’s horror fiction and films with an ambitious, age-spanning story, aimed at mature gamers, fans of Clive Barker and horror fiction enthusiasts.

Release Date:Thu, 23 Aug 2007

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Coming Soon Games - Playstation 3)

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 - PS3 (T)

2007-08-15T09:46:00.003-07:00

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 builds off of the events in the first game and places gamers in control of the U.S. military’s elite fighting unit, the Ghosts. In the year 2014, the rising conflict between Mexican loyalists and insurgent rebel forces has thrown Mexico into full-scale civil war. Under the command of Captain Scott Mitchell, the Ghosts are called upon to face an imminent threat to the United States. The fate of two countries now lies in the hands of the Ghosts as they fend off an attack on U.S. soil. Equipped with the most cutting-edge weaponry and technology, the Ghosts must battle on both sides of the border to neutralize the escalating rebel threat.

* Groundbreaking Visual Experience: The war zone in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 comes to life as you navigate through trash-strewn streets and pick off enemies from behind bomb-scarred structures. The cutting-edge physics and particle systems will show you some of the most intense and realistic explosions, smoke, and environment destruction ever seen in a video game. Dynamic lighting and shadows will morph as real-time day/night cycles and a constantly changing weather system require you to adjust to the changing conditions on the fly.
* All-New Battlegrounds: For the first time ever, the Ghosts will defend U.S. soil from a cross-border attack, taking the fight to all-new locations. The Ghosts will battle enemies in mountain terrains, barren deserts and even on their home turf in El Paso, Texas. Each environment presents its own benefits and challenges and will call for fresh tactical approaches.
* Vastly Improved Artificial Intelligence (AI): Watch your back as rebels send their own team members to flank your position or gain vantage points by utilizing vertical gameplay to pick you off from the rooftops above. Improved squad-mate AI will now feed you more of the information you need with descriptive commands like “enemy spotted behind red truck ahead.”
* Improved Cross-Com: The revolutionary new Cross-Com 2.0 will give the player more information than ever before. You will be able to see what your friendly forces see in the top left display and the click of a button will expand that to full-screen view for a clearer and more precise picture. This will give you a more comprehensive view of the entire battlefield. The new Full Command View will allow unprecedented precision in developing and issuing tactical plans on the battlefield.
* Expanded Support: Command lethal air strikes with jet fighters, gain mobile cover for otherwise impassable situations and replenish armaments on the battlefield using an unmanned artillery MULE. Players can now heal their team on the battlefield, including squad leader Scott Mitchell, with an all-new Medic class of soldier.

Release Date:Tue, 21 Aug 2007

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Coming Soon Games - Playstation 3)

Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball Screenshots

2007-08-15T09:46:00.001-07:00

We bring you four new screenshots of Pirates vs. Ninjas Dodgeball, an Xbox Live Arcade game that features multiplayer support for 4 players Local / 8 players Online, and 4player Coop modes.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Screenshots News)

Postal III Official Site and Screenshots

2007-08-14T19:47:00.029-07:00

The official Postal III website has been launched, as well as several new screenshots released. Get updated on everything inside.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Madden NFL 08 Released to Stores

2007-08-14T19:47:00.027-07:00

Electronic Arts today announced that Madden NFL 08, the newest iteration of the best-selling EA Sports football franchise with the exclusive videogame license of the NFL and PLAYERS INC, is now available in stores nationwide.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Beautiful Katamari Demo Goes Live

2007-08-14T19:47:00.025-07:00

Namco have released a demo of Beautiful Katamari onto the Xbox Live Marketplace that you can download and play starting now.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

My Chemical Romance Brings New DLC to Guitar Hero II

2007-08-14T19:47:00.023-07:00

Guitar Hero fans now have the opportunity to download three original recordings from The Black Parade album from My Chemical Romance through the Xbox Live Marketplace, beginning today.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

SKATE Flickit Video

2007-08-14T19:47:00.021-07:00

Electronic Arts have released a new trailer for SKATE entitled "Flickit".

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Three Universe at War: Earth Assault Vids

2007-08-14T19:47:00.019-07:00

Another couple of videos from Sega, this time we have three new high definition videos taken from Universe at War: Earth Assault.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Sega Rally Tropical Trailer

2007-08-14T19:47:00.017-07:00

It’s a beautiful day in the SEGA universe and where better to race than through the lush green jungles of SEGA Rally. We have a new "Tropical Trailer" for you to look at.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Bladestorm: The Hundred Years' War Screenshots

2007-08-14T19:47:00.015-07:00

KOEI have sent us some new screenshots taken from Bladestorm: The Hundred Years' War. Check them out within.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

KOEI Reveals Three Upcoming Demos

2007-08-14T19:47:00.013-07:00

KOEI, today announced the release date for the Fatal Inertia demo on Xbox live along with confirmation that this release will be followed up with playable demos for Bladestorm: The Hundred Years’ War and Dynasty Warriors GUNDAM.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Prepare To Go Schizoid

2007-08-14T19:47:00.011-07:00

At GameFest 2007, Tropex Games will be showcasing their new Xbox Live Arcade title which they reckon is a pretty addictive co-op... it's called Schizoid.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Ecco the Dolphin & Hexic 2 Coming Wednesday

2007-08-14T19:47:00.009-07:00

Whether you’re feeling competitive this summer or just want to take a break and unwind, you can do both this week with the latest additions to Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360: Hexic 2 and Ecco the Dolphin.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Dream-Build-Play Contest Winners Announced

2007-08-14T19:47:00.007-07:00

At Gamefest 2007, the annual Microsoft Game Technology Conference, Microsoft Corp. today announced the highly anticipated winners of its Dream-Build-Play game development contest.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

New Mountain Dew Drink Made for Halo 3

2007-08-14T19:47:00.005-07:00

A new brand of Mountain Dew - Game Fuel - has been developed with 30% more caffeine in conjunction with Halo 3. Good or bad, check out the full details.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Lost Planet Map Pack #3 Update

2007-08-14T19:47:00.003-07:00

Find out when all the Map Pack #3 will be available for free download on Xbox Live Marketplace.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Xbox Live News)

Confirmed Xbox 360 Premium Gets HDMI

2007-08-14T19:47:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's rumor of Xbox 360 Premium and Cores getting HDMI functionality was partially true as Microsoft today confirmed that the Premium will get a builtin HDMI port. Currently, there are no plans to add HDMI to the Core.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Xbox 360 News)

Battlestations Midway - Xbox 360 (RP)

2006-12-29T11:07:00.011-08:00

For the first time, relive the intensity of massive air, sea and underwater WWII battles in a unique mix of intense action and tactical gameplay. Directly control dozens of highly detailed warships, aircraft and submarines in a ‘free-control’ environment as you design and execute the best plans of attack. Command the colossal firepower of a fully armed battleship, engage the enemy in fierce dogfights through flak-infested skies or utilise the stealth of your submarine to unleash deadly torpedo attacks on unsuspecting enemies.

Release Date:Tue, 23 Jan 2007

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Coming Soon Games - Xbox 360)

NCAA March Madness 07 - Xbox 360 (E)

2006-12-29T11:07:00.010-08:00

NCAA March Madness 07 debuts on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system by delivering a strategic basketball gameplay experience and next generation feature set that captures the intensity and atmosphere that characterizes college basketball. Never before have home court and the home crowd meant more as your players either rise to the occasion or wilt under the pressure of charged-up, authentic college courts. Feel the intensity rise, then watch as each player responds differently, trying to maintain composure. As the atmosphere heats up your player composure ratings affect the all-new Intensity Control that changes momentum by allowing you to pump up the crowd, motivate your teammates, raise your own composure or even intimidate your opponent. Plus, become immersed like never before by interacting with student sections, school mascots, cheerleaders, and even the band.

Beyond the atmosphere, NCAA March Madness 07 delivers an authentic college basketball gameplay experience by offering custom playbooks for each team through the Floor General Playcalling system, the EA SPORTS Lockdown Stick that allows your players to pressure the ball, force turnovers and harass opponents on the court, and an enhanced Dynasty Mode with new School Pride and Recruiting features that let you build your school into a national powerhouse. In addition, the popular voices of college basketball are back with ESPN’s Dick Vitale and Brad Nessler calling the action courtside.

Release Date:Wed, 17 Jan 2007

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Coming Soon Games - Xbox 360)

HD DVD Encryption Hacked, Xbox 360 Player Utilized

2006-12-29T11:07:00.009-08:00

A hacker claims to have broken the AACS encryption technology used to prevent unauthorized copies of HD DVD and Bluray Disc. The Xbox 360 HD DVD player has been used for tests and demonstrations. More info inside.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Hardware News)

PX360 Podcast Delayed One Entire Day

2006-12-29T11:07:00.008-08:00

We would like to blame it all on the Xbox Live crash of 2006, but we have to fess up and say that, for very good reasons, we are rescheduling the podcast to Saturday mornings from now on.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Rumor: Rare Bringing Killer Instinct to Xbox 360

2006-12-29T11:07:00.007-08:00

Dutch website Xbox360only.nl, ever the source of juicy rumors, is reporting that Microsoft's developer buddy Rare is working on an updated version of the creature-fest brawler Killer Instinct.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Command & Conquer 3 Xbox 360 Screenshots

2006-12-29T11:07:00.006-08:00

We bring you new screenshots of the Xbox 360 version of Command & Conquer 3 Tiberium Wars.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Screenshots News)

Movie and TV Downloads Get Their Own Top 10 List

2006-12-29T11:07:00.005-08:00

Larry Hryb has responded to trailerrloads of requests from curious Xbox Live users and is now going to publish a weekly list of the top movie and TV episode downloads on the Xbox Live Video Marketplace. Read in for the first list.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Xbox Live Alive Again

2006-12-29T11:07:00.004-08:00

Major Nelson has posted an update to his blog indicating that Xbox Live matchmaking has now been fixed, though no explanation has emerged as of yet for the trouble.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Small Arms Challenge Derailed by Live Problems

2006-12-29T11:07:00.003-08:00

The recent Xbox Live problems have extended beyond ruining a night of gaming, and have caused the Small Arms portion of the Global Arcade Challenge to be postponed until January.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Crackdown Uses Halo 3 Beta to Entice Gamers

2006-12-29T11:07:00.002-08:00

When British fan websites use Halo 3 beta access to make extra cashola it can be defined as sleazy, but when Microsoft uses one of its own games to pimp out the other, its just plain business.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Free Godfather Theme Graces the Marketplace

2006-12-29T11:07:00.001-08:00

Electronic Arts wants you to know that they are not a bunch of coal-hearted grinches, and they would like to let you celebrate a very Corleone holiday with a free Godfather theme.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Xbox Live Matchmaking is Dead, For Now

2006-12-29T11:07:00.000-08:00

In a bitterly horrifying turn of events, tonight's Gears of War party was murdered before it even began, and we are not alone. Matchmaking for every single Xbox Live game is out of commission.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Give the PX360 Team a Go at Gears Tonight

2006-12-29T11:06:00.019-08:00

The hosts of the Planet Xbox 360 Podcast are having another Gears of War party tonight. If you're willing to have fun and not take yourself too seriously, the hijinx begin tonight at 8:00 pm Pacific time.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

This Week's XBLA Title a Regifted Rally-X

2006-12-29T11:06:00.018-08:00

It's just like your grandmother was responsible for this week's Xbox Live Arcade title, and she got you a copy of that old racing game that was so "neat" back in 1981.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Mercenaries 2 Not a PS3 Exclusive?

2006-12-29T11:06:00.017-08:00

Something fishy is going on at Pandemic Studios, where a recent developer's video blog showed the Merc 2 team, supposedly working on the PS3 exclusive title, manhandling what are very clearly Xbox 360s.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Correction: Virtua Fighter Limited Time PS3 Exclusive

2006-12-29T11:06:00.016-08:00

As reported last week, Sega has yanked full exclusivity from Sony for the upcoming Virtua Fighter 5, but the game will indeed get a few months of PS3 glory.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Save Big Bucks on Gears and Other 360 Games

2006-12-29T11:06:00.015-08:00

Stores are using deep post-holiday discounts on some of the Xbox 360's biggest games, like Gears of War and Rainbow Six Vegas, to get you to rush into the stores this week.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

How the Gooch Stole Christmas

2006-12-29T11:06:00.014-08:00

On this very special day we bring you inside Bungie Studios. Kind of. Inside Bungie and inside the rageling that is Mat Noguchi. Enter a world which we should never have been so irresponsible to expose you to in the first place.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

Win a Copy of Lost Planet

2006-12-29T11:06:00.013-08:00

If noone loves you enough to prove it with an outlay of cash, you still have a chance for a sweet gift when Australia's PAL Gaming Network gives away ten copies of Capcom's Lost Planet.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

GamingTV.org Video Intro Contest

2006-12-29T11:06:00.012-08:00

This contest is for the official GamingTV.org video intro - there are great prizes up for grabs, and a two week time-frame to craft your intro. Read more for full details.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

Command & Conquer 3 Trailer #3 in High Definition

2006-12-29T11:06:00.011-08:00

Watch this third gameplay trailer made entirely of footage from the Xbox 360 version of Command & Conquer 3 Tiberium Wars.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

The Bungie Weekly Update

2006-12-29T11:06:00.010-08:00

Welcome to the last Bungie Weekly Update of 2006, where we basically wish you all happy holidays and head off into the sunset. Or snowstorm, for those of us unlucky enough to be going anywhere near Colorado. Anyhoo, jump in, jump out and go enjoy the break.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

Crackdown Screenshots and Videos

2006-12-29T11:06:00.009-08:00

With the announcement that Crackdown will be released on Feb. 20 we wanted to share some new footage and screenshots of the game.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Screenshots News)

12 Year Old Girl Gets Zune PreLoaded with Porn

2006-12-29T11:06:00.008-08:00

Probably she was too nice this year and for that reason Santa thought she needs to be more naughty.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Hardware News)

Give the Gift of Bungie

2006-12-29T11:06:00.007-08:00

Give the gift of Bungie this Holiday Season. Desperate for a last minute gift? Can't get hold of a Cabbage Patch Kid or whatever the young people are into these days? Why not give an electronic gift certificate to the Bungie store, and stop worrying about UPS 3 Day shipping, and Target parking lots right now.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

NBA Street Homecourt Richard RIP Hamilton

2006-12-29T11:06:00.006-08:00

We bring you a new trailer of the Xbox 360 version of NBA STREET Homecourt featuring Richard "RIP" Hamilton's home court.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

HARKER Web Site Launches, New HD Media

2006-12-29T11:06:00.005-08:00

Along with the new web site, The Collective has released new screenshots and concept art of HARKER plus the very first teaser trailer of the game.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

XFPS 360 Final Testing Completed

2006-12-29T11:06:00.004-08:00

XCM announced today that final testing of the XFPS 360, a keyboard and mouse adapter for Xbox 360, has been completed successfully.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Hardware News)

MojoPlay Announces Portable LCD Monitor for Xbox 360

2006-12-29T11:06:00.003-08:00

MojoPlay began shipping today its first new gaming display for Microsofts Xbox 360, the MP920XB.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Hardware News)

SKATE Jason Dill

2006-12-29T11:06:00.002-08:00

Here's the first video and render from EA's SKATE! This time we feature Jason Dill. Check it out!

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

The Gift - A Halo CE Chronicles Christmas Story

2006-12-29T11:06:00.001-08:00

The Halo CE Chronicles machinima has released a story of Christmas on the first ring world found by man. It's available in a number of formats at the Halo CE Chronicles' website.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

Prices for LCD HDTVs to Drop Up to 40% Throughout 2007

2006-12-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Manufacturers expect 42inch LCD HDTVs to drop to $999 by the end of next year in North America. More info inside.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Hardware News)

Xbox 360 game Gears of War serves more than 2M

2006-12-15T16:42:00.008-08:00

Microsoft Game Studios and Epic Games on Fri. announced that the Xbox 360 offering Gears of War has sold more than 2 million units worldwide.

The action game was released in the U.S. in Nov. and has sold 1 million copies to date.

"Gears of Wa' clearly has won the battle for the title of the must-have game of the year," said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global marketing for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp. "Its phenomenal success is one of many reasons why Xbox 360 is the ultimate place to get together with friends to play this holiday."

According to Microsoft, more than 1 million unique gamers have engaged in 10 million online gameplay sessions. In addition, paid registrations for Xbox Live have increased more than 50 percent since the game's launch.

The Xbox 360 is enjoying brisk sales in global markets. In the U.S. the machine sold over 600,000 units in Nov. In Japan, the console's sales skyrocketed on the release of the new RPG Blue Dragon.

Microsoft expects to sell more than 10 million Xbox 360s worldwide by year-end.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Bungie Weekly Update

2006-12-15T16:42:00.007-08:00

Without power to the Bungie building, I can't post a Mister Chief. I am writing this from a coffee shop, the only building in a ten block radius with power. As a result, it looks like a refugee camp. The manager is a Halo fan though, so he probably won't kick me out, as long as I keep promising to de-nerf the pistol.

This week got a little mental, when some of our friends in Belgium "revealed" that a documentary feature would be on Xbox Live Marketplace next week, and "reveal" that the Brutes were playable characters in Halo 3. Well, they're not playable characters.

The fact is, Brutes in Halo 3 will be significantly more exciting, clever, graphically impressive, terrifying, numerous and angrier than in Halo 2, but they won't be playable, especially since you, in the role of Master Chief, will be spending a significant amount of effort and ammunition reducing their population.

The documentary mentioned on the interwebs, does indeed exist, as I have mentioned before in previous updates. We're keeping the exact contents as a kind of holiday surprise for the faithful, and you'll be able to see the entire thing in 720p and surround sound some time next week. It's a very interesting piece. especially if you're interested in Campaign mode.

And if you don't have an Xbox 360, don't panic. We love you, and we're going to ensure that everyone gets to see it next week. Just know that the 360 version will have the best resolution for pausing, staring at something and saying, "Is that what I think it is!?"

Anyway, sorry I can't tell you more about that today, but then, that IS the point of a surprise, right? Even if those chocolate-munching, Tin-Tin reading, waffle-snarfing Belgians are just too excited to keep a lid on it.

One other note - we made it to the Penny Arcade Child's Play auction on Wednesday, a charity auction to raise money for Children's Hospitals, and one attended largely by video game folks, who gave generously of prizes and cash to raise money for an excellent cause.

Congratulations to the Penny Arcade guys for raising literally hundreds of thousands of dollars, and congratulations to the successful bidders on the Bungie items, one of which was a chance to have a voice-over appearance in Halo 3. The winner of that bid was a surprise to us, and probably a pleasant surprise to you guys. More news about who the deep-pocketed community-favorite is, at a later date.

Peace out!

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Bungie.net's Recent News)

Extended Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 Trailer

2006-12-15T16:42:00.006-08:00

1280x720| 640x360

Click here to view all screenshots

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

Bethesda Softworks Releases Star Trek Legacy for the Xbox 360

2006-12-15T16:42:00.005-08:00

High upon the release of Star Trek Legacy for the PC, now Xbox 360 gamers can get into the action.

Bethesda Softworks today announced that the highly anticipated strategy/action game, STAR TREK: Legacy for the Xbox 360 videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft is shipping to North American retail stores. STAR TREK: Legacy for Windows was released last week and is currently on store shelves. The release of STAR TREK: Legacy completes Bethesda’s current lineup of STAR TREK titles, which includes the highly popular STAR TREK: Encounters for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and STAR TREK: Tactical Assault for the PSP (PlayStationPortable) system and the Nintendo DS.

STAR TREK: Legacy places you in the Admiral’s chair as you command your hand-selected fleet of starships into battle. Featuring striking space environments, detailed weapon effects, and full damage modeling, the single player Federation campaign and robust multiplayer modes span the entire STAR TREK Universe with over 80 ships and 4 playable races. While commanding Federation, Romulan, Gorn, or Borg fleets, this real-time combat game provides a strategic and tactical experience as you battle across vast sections of space.

STAR TREK: Legacy features the voices of all five actors who portrayed the original STAR TREK captains – William Shatner, Patrick Stewart, Scott Bakula, Avery Brooks, and Kate Mulgrew. The collaboration marks the first time the five actors have participated in a single STAR TREK project together. In addition, Bethesda Softworks also worked with acclaimed STAR TREK writer, Dorothy “D.C.” Fontana, and her writing partner, Derek Chester, to provide compelling and authentic storylines for STAR TREK: Legacy.

STAR TREK: Legacy, developed at Mad Doc Software under the direction of Bethesda Softworks, is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB. For more information on the title, visit the official Web site at http://startrek.bethsoft.com.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

More Xbox 360 Lawsuit Details Revealed

2006-12-15T16:42:00.004-08:00

We had a feeling that the Xbox 360 lawsuit we reported about earlier was not going just go away.

The firms handling the case are handling the case are Atlanta-based Chitwood Harley Harnes, Seattle-based Keller Rohrback and Los Angeles-based Kabateck Brown Kellner, according to Next Generation.

Senior partner Brian Kabateck thinks that Microsoft's position is indefensible.

“I don't know what their defense possibly could be. They screwed up, and there's no question that this [update problem] happened. How many people it happened to, we don't know, but my firm has been contacted by almost 400 people since this became public.”

Microsoft has claimed that they would pay for all shipping, repair and/or replacement costs for affected consoles. “If that were true, that would go a long way to solving the problem,” Kabateck said.

"Unfortunately, all the reports we're getting is that Microsoft is saying 'Send your Xbox in and for 140 bucks we'll fix it.' In our opinion, they're turning their screw-up into a profit center."

According to the complaint, the filers are asking for awards worth at least $5,000,000, but that amount is expected to change based on how many people were affected by the fall update.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Blue Dragon release boosts Xbox 360 sales in Japan

2006-12-15T16:42:00.003-08:00

But Nintendo DS still tops the hardware chart

According to the latest sales figures from Media Create, the DS is still the best-selling console in Japan - but sales of Xbox 360 have seen a sharp rise following the release of platform exclusive Blue Dragon.

During the week ending December 10, just under 310,000 DS Lite units were sold, while the figure for the Nintendo Wii stood at 85,439 units. PlayStation 3 topped the 50,000 mark, bringing the total number of sales so far up to 238,000.

Microsoft sold 35,343 Xbox 360s - an increase of nearly 90 per cent over the previous week's figure of just over 4000 consoles. It's likely that the rise was linked to the release of Blue Dragon, which was developed by Mistwalker, the studio led by Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi. The game debuted in the all-formats software charts at number four.

In fifth place on the hardware chart is the PS2 (30,460 units), followed by the PSP (just under 29,000 units). Rounding off the top ten are the Game Boy Micro, GameCube, original DS, GBA and original Xbox, in that order.

Namco Bandai's Gundam SEED: Federation vs. ZAFT II went straight in at number one on the software chart, followed by another PS2 title, Yakuza 2.

Pokémons Diamond and Pearl are in third and fifth place respectively, and DS games Kirby Squeak Squad, Jump Ultimate Stars and Common Knowledge Training are at numbers seven, nine and ten.

The remaining two places in the top ten went to Wii Sports at six and Wii Play at eight. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess was down at number 17, possibly due to stock shortages.

The highest charting PlayStation 3 title was Ridge Racer 7 at number 38, followed by Gundam Target in Sight at 39 and Resistance: Fall of Man in 44th place.

Aside from Blue Dragon, one other Xbox 360 title made it into the top 100 - Dead or Alive X2, at number 82.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

More games added to Xbox 360 backwards compatibility

2006-12-15T16:42:00.002-08:00

Microsoft has released a new update for the Xbox 360 backwards compatibility software, with lots of new titles added.

The update should prompt you to install it when you load up an Xbox game in your Xbox 360, and once installed you'll have access to a new set of Xbox games that previously didn't work on Microsoft's next-gen console.

The most notable additions are Shenmue II, Psychonauts and Conker: Live and Reloaded. The games should look better than ever thanks to upscaled visuals and the addition of anti-aliasing.

The list of Xbox games that work on the Xbox 360 has now expanded to more than 300, but there are still some top titles not compatible - Rallisport Challenge 2 and Jet Set Radio Future to name but two.

You can view the full list of compatible games over on Xbox.com, where you can also download the update to your PC if you can't get your Xbox online.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Star Trek: Legacy Ships to Stores on Impulse Power

2006-12-15T16:42:00.001-08:00

Early next week you should start to catch Star Trek: Legacy, a strategy game for the Xbox 360, hitting store shelves in North America. Set phasers to wait and see. The game is the first Star Trek license to hit the next-gen Microsoft world. It has received some not so awful reviews, and has the potential to offer something new for the console.

STAR TREK: Legacy places you in the Admiral’s chair as you command your hand-selected fleet of starships into battle. Featuring striking space environments, detailed weapon effects, and full damage modeling, the single player Federation campaign and robust multiplayer modes span the entire STAR TREK Universe with over 80 ships and 4 playable races. While commanding Federation, Romulan, Gorn, or Borg fleets, this real-time combat game provides a strategic and tactical experience as you battle across vast sections of space.

STAR TREK: Legacy features the voices of all five actors who portrayed the original STAR TREK captains – William Shatner, Patrick Stewart, Scott Bakula, Avery Brooks, and Kate Mulgrew. The collaboration marks the first time the five actors have participated in a single STAR TREK project together.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Backwards Compatibility List Gets Updated

2006-12-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

While we first posted about the backwards compatibility update a couple of days ago, the list of newly playable original Xbox games has now been confirmed by Microsoft. The newly added titles to the list are as follows:

Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Burnout 3: Takedown
Conker: Live and Reloaded
Dead Or Alive Ultimate
Destroy All Humans!
Dynasty Warriors 4 /
Evil Dead: A Fistful of Boomstick
Ex Chaser (Japan Only)
Family Guy
Far Cry: Instincts
Fahrenheit/Indigo Prophecy
T-Ninja
Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude
Mortal Kombat: Armageddon
MotoGP
Incredibles/ Mr. Incredible (J)
Muzzle Flash (Japan Only)
MX Unleashed
Open Season
Pariah
Plus Plumb 2 (Japan Only)
Psychonauts
Psyvariar2 Extend Edition (Japan Only)
Rainbow Six: Lockdown
Rapala Pro Fishing
Rent-A-Hero No. 1 (Japan Only)
Scarface
Shark Tale
Shenmue II
Soul Calibur 2 (North America Only)
Splinter Cell: Double Agent
Tenerezza (Japan Only)
The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
Ultimate Spider-Man
Wakeboarding Unleashed: Featuring Sean Murray
Whacked!
Winback 2: Project Poseidon
Xiaolin Showdown

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Gears of War Becomes Fastest Selling Next-Gen Title

2006-12-15T16:34:00.000-08:00

Gears of War is officially the fastest selling next generation console title yet, selling a very impressive 2 million copies since its launch just six weeks ago. Here's the official press release outlining the achievement.

-- Press Release Begins --

A video game champion has been crowned; Gears of War made history today by becoming the fastest- selling next-generation game of 2006 and the fastest-selling exclusive Xbox game ever.

Microsoft Game Studios and Epic Games today confirmed that Gears of War has sold more than 2 million copies worldwide since its release six weeks ago, with a stunning 1 million copies sold in the U.S. alone.

"Gears of War clearly has won the battle for the title of the must-have game of the year," said Jeff Bell, corporate vice president of global marketing for the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp. "Its phenomenal success is one of many reasons why Xbox 360 is the ultimate place to get together with friends to play this holiday."

"We've always held high hopes for Gears of War, but we never expected such an overwhelmingly positive response from critics and gamers all over the world," said Michael Capps, president, Epic Games. "I can't describe how stoked our team is right now. Our fans can absolutely count on Epic to keep delivering new gameplay through Xbox Live."

In addition to being the must-have video game of the holiday season, Gears of War continues to rage on the Xbox Live battlefield as well, with more than 1 million unique gamers engaging in 10 million online gameplay sessions and unlocking an impressive 7 million achievements. On top of being the No. 1 title on Xbox Live, Gears of War has driven new members to the network; paid registrations per day have skyrocketed more than 50 percent since the game's launch.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Pimp Your Xbox 360

2006-12-14T10:50:00.000-08:00

By Author: John Lin

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Xbox 360 Backwards Compatibility List Updated!

2006-12-12T18:59:00.001-08:00

It's been a long time coming, but today, Microsoft have given the gamers what they wanted - a new backwards compatibility update, which adds support for over 30 new games, many of which gamers had been crying out for for some time now. Shenmue II, Far Cry, Farenheit, Dead Or Alive Ultimate and Psychonauts are all in there, begging gamers to dust off their old Xbox collection, or even invest in some "old school" gaming once again. We're sure that Double-Fine Production, the developers of Psychonauts, will be pleased with this news, as they can call off their long campaign to get gamers to barrage Microsoft with e-mails. If you don't remember this story, here's a summary of what they asked you to do.

"I want you to get up. I want you to walk over to your window right now. I want you to open your window up, and then I want you to stick your head out, and then I want you to take in a nice breath of fresh air, and then I want you to close that window and walk back to your computer and click on this link and send Microsoft a heartfelt message. Something to the effect of, 'I am a 9-year-old boy in the hospital, dying of consumption, and my last wish is to play Psychonauts on my Xbox 360!' (Please, try to make up your own disease.)"

Maybe peer pressure does work sometimes?

We've summarised the list for you below. Included are some 30 new games.

New titles

All-Star Baseball™ 2005
Aquaman: Battle of Atlantis
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Dead Or Alive Ultimate
Destroy All Humans!
Dynasty Warriors 4 / Shin Sangokumuso3
Evil Dead: A Fistful of Boomstick
Fahrenheit/Indigo Prophecy
Far Cry: Instincts
Incredibles/ Mr. Incredible (J)
I-Ninja
Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude
Mortal Kombat: Armageddon
MotoGP
MX Unleashed
Open Season
Pariah
Psychonauts
Rainbow Six: Lockdown
Rapala Pro Fishing
Scarface
Shark Tale
Shenmue II
Splinter Cell: Double Agent
The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
Ultimate Spider-Man
Wakeboarding Unleashed: Featuring Sean Murray
Whacked!
Winback 2: Project Poseidon
Xiaolin Showdown

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Microsoft ships "free" Xbox 360 development tools

2006-12-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

Free development software for the Xbox 360. With a catch.

XNA Game Studio Express, a PC hosted game development environment for the XBOX 360, has been released.

XNA Game Studio Express is based on Visual C# 2005 Express Edition and the .NET Compact Framework. It runs on any Windows XP PC, and allows the development of games for both Windows and the XBox 360.

There is a catch or two.

You can offer your new games trhu the Xbox Live Arcade, you will have to pay Microsoft $99 per year through XBox Live Marketplace to become an "XNA Creators Club" member. This also gets you access to white papers, sample code, and support forum - so its a pretty good deal.

Any games offered thru Xbox Live Arcade are only available to other XNA Creators Club members, who also have the Xbox 360 hard drive (and have paid Microsoft $99/year)

Oh yeah - any game you offer includes the source code, must be offered on non-commercial terms, and is re-compiled on the other end. Basically this pretty much rules out shareware or commercial XBox 360 games.

You cannot distribute the games on memory cards or CD/DVD's "at this time".

Frankly, this is an interesting idea; the biggest mistake here that Microsoft is making is not allowing the burning of XBox 360 compatible CD/DVD's, which would allow for a shareware market to develop.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Sabarasa Considering Nintendo Wii Development

2006-12-12T18:58:00.006-08:00

Sabarasa Entertainment talks Wii and DS

Wii just may see future titles from Sabarasa Entertainment, the development company behind the Game Boy Advance title Mazes Of Fate.

In an interview with N-Philes, CEO Javier Otaegui talked about both the possibility of developing on both DS and Nintendo Wii. When asked about porting Mazes Of Fate, Otaegui revealed, "We are definitely thinking of the DS, but not for porting exactly this game. We have already started pre-production work for Mazes of Fate 2 for DS."

So Mazes Of Fate 2 is definitely on the horizon. But that doesn't rule out Nintendo's next gen console as well. We "might start thinking about creating Wii games in the short term as well," he said.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

Pre-built wireless Wii sensor bar for sale

2006-12-12T18:58:00.005-08:00

by Donald Melanson
Filed under: Gaming

Looking to cut that pesky cord off your Wii's sensor bar but unwilling to mod it, build one from scratch, or make do with candles or TV remotes? Well, it looks like the inevitable has finally happened, with the first pre-built wireless sensor bars now available for sale for the low, low price of $24.99 (plus $5.99 shipping and handling). Supposedly, it'll give you the same range as the standard Wii sensor bar and run for a full 48 hours on a single 9V battery, with an on/off switch to conserve battery life. Of course, WirelessSensorBar.com isn't exactly the most well-known video game accessory maker, so we can't vouch for their legitimacy but, for the time being at least, it looks like they're the only game in town.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

New Details for MLB 07: The Show on PlayStation 3

2006-12-12T18:58:00.004-08:00

Sony Computer Entertainment America has announced new details on its upcoming baseball game MLB 07: The Show for the PS3 console. The developer behind the game is the San Diego studio of Sony Computer Entertainment America.

Sony released several new features on the game today including these in the fact sheet released just today:

Road to The Show – Along with Classic Career Mode, MLB 07 The Show introduces an innovative new option. Road to The Show enables gamers to play offense and defense from the created player’s perspective for they plays in which they are involved. The game will automatically fast forward to the next user-integrated sequence with some events occasionally triggering situational goals form coaches or managers.
Always Online – With the PS3, players will have the option to be “Always Online” allowing elements such as MLB Score Ticker, Instant Messaging, Buddy Invites and more to occur at any point. Gamers could be playing an exhibition game and receive an message from a buddy to get into a different game room and go head-to-head. No scoring update in the MLB will be missed, as the MLB.com powered ticker can be seen during any off or online game.
Online League Play – MLB 07 The Show provides today’s sports fanatics with the ability to set up leagues with anywhere from 6-30 teams with full stat tracking, point benefits and rewards. Gamers can customize the league including choosing players, teams, length of schedule and much more. (Note: There are no cross platform leagues available.)
Online News Service / MLB.com Headline News – Sports fanatics can receive all the current happenings in sports today. Information will be updated a few times each hour with news, trades and events from 31 different feeds, each containing 25 unique items. Users can select general MLB® headlines or updates from all 30 teams instantly. New for 07, MLB 07 The Show offers an enhanced Live MLB Ticker, which shows live status of all MLB games going on around the league – with updates several times a minute. This new view will be complete with who is on base, pitching, batting, on-deck and full inning-by-inning box scores.
Rivalry Mode – For those with a competitive nature, Rivalry Mode allows baseball fans to set up and maintain multi-game rivalries between multiple gamers or versus the Artificial Intelligence (AI), and keeps track of the stats throughout the rivalry.
Franchise Mode – Extending the experience of running a team, performance and player morale are tracked on virtually every level – salary, playing time, batting slot, team performance, and much more.
Career Mode – The Career Spotlight underscores all of the accomplishments and failures during a career and showcases them in the limelight. Gamers still need to call the shots, but now the ramifications of actions are documented.
Season Mode – Grind out the162 game season and deal with day-to-day match-ups, refining the lineup and play for the championship just like the pros.
All-Star Game – Lets gamers take the virtual road trip to San Francisco early to see who prevails for home field advantage in the 2007 Fall Classic.
Adaptive Pitching Intelligence (API) – Catchers will call the game based on individual strengths and weaknesses of each pitcher and analyze tendencies of batters. Gamers will have the ability to trust the pitches called by the catcher or shake them off. (The catcher’s recommendations are based off of thousands of actual MLB® stats.)
Pitch Command System (PCS) – Delivering unsurpassed authenticity and strategy to pitch selection, a pitcher’s “pitch comfort” will be predetermined based on a best to worst pitch scenario. It’s up the gamer to decide if they should try to “work on a pitch” or just go with what’s working. The more a player works on a pitch, the better it becomes, and the more a gamer neglects a pitch, the harder it becomes to work the zone.

PlayMaker Fielding – The fielding interface brings the player attributes together with the user’s skill level. With the Fielding Zone Marker, the fielder’s fielding attribute rating will determine the size of the zone that surrounds the ball and its eventual landing location. With highly ranked fielders, the ball marker will be displayed sooner and smaller, making it easier to judge fly balls.
Multi-Branch Fielding – Branch Point Technology goes to a new level as gamers you can now take full control of fielders and break out of any animation in the process. Change a fielding decision and branch out of any animation after the first branch point. With Branch Point Technology, MLB 07 The Show provides unbelievably smooth, fluid transitions for seamless double plays and relays.
Release Point Pitching – Taking video game pitching to a whole new level, gamers must utilize a timing mechanism to learn and realize each pitchers pace and release point, which varies from pitcher to pitcher.
Pitching Confidence Meter – The ultimate pitcher/batter interface returns. Additionally, Pitcher Confidence plays a role in a gamer’s ability to hit release points in the all-new pitch meter, while frequency of mistakes will impact the confidence level of a gamer’s hurler, making it more difficult to paint the corners of the strike zone.
Guess Pitch – Baseball fans can attempt to master the ability to knock one out or hit the grounder to advance the runner by checking the pitch history and correctly guessing which pitch and the location that the pitcher will throw next. If the correct pitch is selected, the power attribute is increased in attempts to leave the yard in a hurry.
Pitch Grips – Gamers will be able to detail the different pitch grips and arm angles that a pitcher has when throwing each pitch. Showing these details in Replay Mode shows what to look for in release point and pitch arm angle from 15 different pitches.
40-Man Roster – Provides the ability to take full control of a team’s roster and manage all 40 players for each and every game.
My Sliders (Up/Downloadable) – The My Sliders option gives users the ability to create their perfect game settings offline by adjusting game sliders. Gamers can then save these adjustments to memory and, when online, upload to them to the MLB 07 The Show server for other users to try and let the online community be the judge on finding the perfect game.
MLB® Player Motion Captures – MLB 07 The Show features dozens of professional athletes including David Wright, David Ortiz, Eric Chavez, Roger Clemens, Shawn Green, Tony Gwynn, Trevor Hoffman, Tim Hudson, Darryl Hamilton, Troy Percival, Brett Tomko, Mo Vaughn and more.
Thousands of Personalized Animations – Authenticity: featuring personalized player animations for everything from walk-ups, rituals, stances and swings and even emotions.
New Umpire Personalities – Providing even more realism to the diamond, MLB 07 The Show features umpires with unique tendencies and animations. Each umpire will have his own definition of the strike zone, and it’s up to the gamer to figure out if the umpire is calling the zone high, low, or giving the corners.
Managers / Coaches – MLB® managers and coaches will be on the field calling the shots.
MLB Authenticity, Subtleties & Nuances – MLB 07 The Show features drag bunts, wild pitches, broken bats, check swings, off-line throws and much more.
Crowd Interaction – Gamers will see a vast array of new ambient elements including: fans coming, going and reaching for foul balls, vendors, 7th inning stretch, the wave, standing ovations and much, much more. These new subtleties make MLB 07 The Show truly feel like a day at the ballpark.
Wind Effects – MLB 07 The Show features a wind display showing wind speed and direction. Depending upon the severity of the wind, the ball will drift according to the speed and direction. Wind effects will force the player to take the proper route to the ball and make adjustments on the fly.
3-Man Booth & Progressive Commentary – Rex Hudler, Matt Vasgersian and Dave Campbell provide the most comprehensive commentary heard in any baseball videogame. MLB 07 The Show sets the bar high with the Progressive Commentary that changes as the user progresses throughout the game by adapting to current actions and situations.

The game is due to hit store shelves this spring and is the only officially licensed first party videogame for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation Portable.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: playstation - Google News)

Game Preview: MLB ’07 The Show for Playstation Offers a Nice

2006-12-12T18:58:00.003-08:00

Here’s the thing about sports games: When a game makes a huge leap forward graphically, like MLB ’06 on PS2, it’s difficult to take it much further the following year. So the focus instead turns to improvements on game play, and in that sense, MLB ’07: The Show doesn’t disappoint. The new game, to be released February 27, features some interesting twists: For starters, the Online League Play mode, which is basically organized like Fantasy Baseball, allows players to draft a squad, maintain detailed stats, and compete with up to 30 other teams.

Other new features include the “Road to the Show” player creation mode where you can design your own athlete and assign every physical attribute imaginable. You follow the player from spring training to the “The Show” – the Big Leagues – completing various tasks assigned by your manager along the way. You might come to the plate with 1 out and a man on third. The assignment is to hit a sacrifice fly to the outfield, thus scoring the run at third. The more situations you complete, the closer you get to the majors.

Jason Villa, the game’s head producer, highlighted additional features like the camera angles, which make the game feel more realistic than any baseball game I’ve seen. “One thing we’ve always prided ourselves on is presentation,” he said, “making sure you feel like you’re experiencing a real game.” The perspective of your pitcher, for instance, is not from the catcher’s view, but from behind the hurler, as on television. Also, in “Road to the Show” mode, the perspective is always from your player’s back, regardless of where you play. If your guy plays first, you see the field from first. If he’s in the outfield, you’re looking at the game from a distance. It might sound hokey, but it’s a small touch of realism that rounds out “Road to the Show” mode nicely.

Among the other interesting new features, MLB ’07 will feature improved AI, or in this case, Adaptive Pitching Intelligence. The catcher will call the game based on both the pitcher’s strengths and the hitter’s weaknesses. When you’re pitching, you see a small display at the bottom right of the screen that gives accuracy strengths for 5 different pitches. The AI aspect is that levels of accuracy change from pitch to pitch as he becomes more and less confident, from inning to inning as he runs out of gas, and from opposing hitter to opposing hitter, as some guys are better with fastballs than changeups, and others like curves more than heaters. You really see the difference when you try two pitchers with vastly different skill levels. The better the pitcher, the easier it is to control the pitch command meter, and the greater the diversity in pitch selection.

The game will also feature umpire personalities, where certain umps have bigger strike zones than others and call a different game. If you’re playing a season, this is valuable information as you move from week to week.

Overall there’s little to complain about with MLB ’07: The Show. If you like baseball, you’ll love this game more than MLB ’06 because of the improvements, especially the new feature that allows you to check on real games while you’re playing by downloading box scores with live stat updates. If you don’t like baseball, you probably haven’t even read the review to this point, so no worries. Though it will be available on PSP and PS2, the PS3 version will obviously blow the others away.

Scott Goldberg

Click here to read complete article, (Source: playstation - Google News)

Wii Hands On First Impressions

2006-12-12T18:58:00.002-08:00

DHL dropped off a fresh UK PAL Nintendo Wii last Friday morning, ready to get a proper testing in home conditions with nobody watching us acting stupid. Here’s our initial thoughts and findings - including a test with Datel’s Freeloader disc.

Setup

Console set-up was a breeze, the external power supply was larger/longer than we expected (getting towards Xbox360 size!). We installed the sensor bar above the TV set.

The position on the sensor bar appeared to make it more difficult to control when sat down - meaning we had to be on our feet most of the time - burning them calories!

Controls

The remote sensitivity seems okay, but we noticed the pointer hands shake quite a bit, maybe from being too sensitive? The reports about the daylight interfering with the controls is true - the TV was situated in front of a large window - so the curtains had to be drawn to stop the on screen cursors going mad.

Changing the Wiimote sensitivity on the Wii shows two white dots on screen as you wave the remote around, with the daylight shining behind the TV it caused several dots to appear in other places.

The remote doesn’t perform very well, or at all, when close to the TV screen, and fails to respond over 3m from the TV. So people with small rooms could be stuck unless they have small TV sets, and people with long/large rooms might find it annoying having to move closer to the TV screen.

With the Christmas season here, I also found that having a tree next to the TV / sensor bar, and flashing fairy lights on sent the Wii control system mental. So make sure either your TV is away from the Christmas tree, or you turn the fairy lights off when playing!

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

Wii Breaks UK Sales Record

2006-12-12T18:58:00.001-08:00

The lines that snaked in front of stores in London and across the UK on Thursday night and Friday for the debut of the Wii have resulted in Nintendo's console exiting the weekend as the fastest selling console yet.

Nintendo sold more than 105,000 Wiis over the weekend, according to an MCV report, more than doubling the 50,000 that were sold in the first 12 hours. The previous best-selling console was the Xbox 360, which sold 70,000 units in its first weekend last December.

The numbers would probably been higher still if Nintendo had been able to get more consoles onto shelves, but retailers around the country are reporting that they have sold out.

As impressive as the numbers are, the Wii isn't the fastest selling games hardware ever in the UK. That honour still remains with the PSP, which sold 185,000 units in its first three days in September 2005.

As in the US, most of the people who picked up a Wii also bought Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. According to industry watch group Chart Track, two-thirds of new Wii owners also bought a copy of Link's new adventure. Another big seller was Wii Play - a minigame collection that comes with a Wii remote.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

Alien Syndrome for PSP and Wii

2006-12-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

SEGA has announced the development of Alien Syndrome for the PSP and Wii.

Alien Syndrome is described as a fast-paced action-RPG set in an imaginative sci-fi universe. The game is in development at Totally Games and will be launched simultaneously for the PSP and Wii in summer 2007.

The game will offer players two fast-paced game modes: an engaging single-player campaign, plus the replay value provided by co-op multiplayer where up to four people can join in.

If the name is ringing a bell, that's because SEGA released Alien Syndrome back in 1987 for the arcade (later to receive ports to numerous home systems) as a run and gun shooter. This time around SEGA is offering a more in-depth RPG element, whilst still offering the easy to pick up and play action gameplay.

Players will be put in control of the Earth Command Trooper Aileen Harding, who must battle through a variety of environments including infested spaceships and bizarre alien planets. Before players begin their quest a wide variety of character specialities and skills can be chosen, with more abilities and stat increases made available as areas of the game are completed.

The Wii version will utilise the Wii Remote, enabling players to use a full range of motion when slashing through enemies, fighting off bosses, or running and gunning through hallways. There will also be several game mechanics that rely on the remote, such as the ability to craft new items and hack into computer systems.

Alien Syndrome for the PSP will feature Wi-Fi support enabling up to four players to take part in co-op playe in various multiplayer modes.

No firm release date has been set by SEGA, but we can look forward to Alien Syndrome in summer 2007.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

Halo 3 Beta Codes Sold by Sleazy European Website

2006-12-12T18:57:00.000-08:00

The Xbox Community Network has sent out a hard-nosed letter to some European indie websites, warning that being caught selling beta codes will lead to exile from the XCN program. The Halo 3 multiplayer beta scheduled for spring of 2007 has attracted a lot of fan attention, with 360 owners desperate to get in on an early view of the game. Allegedly, a mystery fan site in the UK has resorted to selling off some of their beta codes, instead of giving them away.

In Europe, Microsoft opted not to go with an open registration, instead looking to fan sites as a way to distribute Halo 3 beta access. The plan was to have the codes released through contests and not for profit, but some people have let greed get in the way.

Britxbox, which is in the small group of 15 sites selected to participate in the program, reported on the letter they received about the controversy. Microsoft has not yet identified, or revealed, who the offending parties are but made it clear that they are watching. Britxbox has no involvement in the codes for cash scheme, and is upset that the controversy could cast indie websites in a bad light.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Xbox 360 Owner Sues Microsoft

2006-12-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

Back when Microsoft released the fall update for the Xbox 360, a number of people reported that the new download ended up killing their systems. When we contacted Microsoft for a statement regarding these reports, their reply was, "A small percentage of consoles (less than 1 percent) were affected by the Fall Update. An updated version of the Fall Update was made available on Xbox Live on November 1 which eliminated issues relating to new or refurbished consoles malfunctioning after applying the Fall Update."

The company also adds, "Xbox Support is paying for the shipping and repair/replacement of all Xbox 360 consoles that malfunctioned as a result of the Fall Update on October 31, before it could be fixed on November 1. They just need to phone Xbox Support and give them the proper error message indicating it was the Fall Update that affected their console."

For Xbox 360 owner Kevin Ray, this is too little, too late. Ray downloaded the fall update at the beginning of November, after Microsoft says it fixed the update. This download resulted in a nonfunctioning Xbox 360 console for Ray. After contacting Xbox Support, Ray was told that Microsoft would not pay for the cost to repair or replace his console. On November 29 Ray filed a class-action lawsuit against Microsoft on the behalf of consumers who experienced Xbox 360 hardware failures after downloading the fall update.

The official complaint filed by Ray's lawyer says, "The members of the Class for whose benefit this action is brought are dispersed throughout the United States ... Plaintiff believes that Class members number in at least the thousands." The complaint also says, "Despite acknowledging the existence of the problem, Defendants have refused to make complete restitution to owners of Xbox 360s damaged by the Fall 2006 update." Ray's class action complaints are for breach of contract, violation of the consumer protection act, and negligence. The suit seeks $5 million from Microsoft in damages to affected Xbox 360 users.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Hollywood Goes Gaming: Writer Brings the Legacy of Star Trek to Xbox 360

2006-12-12T18:48:00.000-08:00

As part of its fortieth anniversary, Star Trek fans will be able to play an original story that connects all five TV shows and introduces a new Vulcan antagonist in Star Trek: Legacy. Kevin Chester, who's a die-hard gamer, co-wrote the story with Dorothy "DC" Fontana. Chester has an Xbox 360™, which he uses to play games like The Elder Scrolls® IV: Oblivion™ and Far Cry Instincts™. He said he's selective about which games he buys because he plays them all the way through to the end.

"I play all types of games, ranging from RTS and FPS to adventure and role-playing," said Chester. "Since I grew up playing such a broad range of game types, I hop around a lot to whatever strikes my fancy. In recent years, I found games like Beyond Good and Evil to be a breath of fresh air."

Every ship from the Star Trek franchise is in Legacy.

"I think Xbox 360 is a fantastic piece of hardware and is capable of so much," said Chester, when asked if the next-generation console impacted his writing. "But considering that this product was done on both Xbox 360 and PC, I can't say the writing process changed much in terms of the storytelling. Both had amazing visual quality to the point of being cinematic."

The Final Frontier
Chester said that if he and Fontana had done an adventure game for the Xbox 360, or perhaps a shooter, he could definitely see the power and scope of the console's graphical capability playing a part in the way he might tell a story.

"You're not going to attempt to have a scene that's not capable of being re-created in the game world," said Chester. "Real-time storytelling is an awesome thing, just like in Half-Life, you live the story as you go. One thing about this, it means a lot of scripted events, which can be a huge task for a team of programmers. But, when it works, it's magic, and it's almost a travesty to not have that kind of perceived player interaction with the environment and characters around you."

Star Trek: Legacy focuses on strategic starship combat, which provided a story that's told through voice-overs, rather than direct interaction with in-game characters like in Oblivion.

Kevin Chester knows the Star Trek timeline like the back of his hand.

Battling Captains
Chester said the challenge of having 40 years and hundreds of hours of backstory to draw from with the five different Star Trek TV series was a little daunting, but exciting at the same time.

"We've been able to touch upon previously forbidden Star Trek subjects, and we did it while weaving our own story into the very fabric of Trek history, spanning the lives of all the captains," said Chester. "To truly cover all 40 years, this game would have to be enormous in size and scope, and be almost endless."

"A line had to drawn somewhere," Chester continued, "but we also knew that we were being given an opportunity to pick some of the most crucial and defining moments of these characters' lives and give the fans something that they can truly say has been previously unseen, something that may have only been referenced before."

Chester said the story was quite large in the beginning, and probably would have made a great novel, but as they whittled it down, it got tighter and tighter until Fontana and Chester had something that they knew worked.

"So, although it has been grueling at times, we ended up in a place that served the needs of the game, and still made for an interesting Star Trek story spanning the lives of all the captains. No one wants to disappoint the fans." said Chester. "If I had a chance to revisit the story again, I would love to novelize it and put in all the really great stuff that we never had a chance to put into the game."

All five Star Trek shows have been incorporated into one story.

To Boldly Go …
Being a gamer, Chester has played through all of the past Star Trek games. "As a gamer, you really want any project to be innovative and fun," said Chester. "However, as a writer you also have a great wish to keep it Trek, and within the boundaries of its canon."

"Balancing those concerns is sometimes difficult," Chester continued, "I kept my writers cap on the majority of the time to be sure that Trek isn't missing from the mix. But I think that my experience as a gamer has made it easier for me to find creative and plausible ways to bend canon a little to suit gameplay if needed."

Chester and Fontana worked closely with Mad Doc Software and Bethesda Softworks, offering both gameplay and story ideas. Chester said that, as a gamer, it is a priceless experience to be able to add even small suggestions to a video game. His understanding of gameplay also allowed him to work with the game designers and Fontana to create a seamless blend of story and interactive entertainment.

Article by John Gaudiosi

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Xbox.com Games RSS)

Dark Sector Preview (Xbox 360)

2006-12-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

Waaaaaaaay back in early 2004, we got our first glimpse at what the "next-generation" of gaming would look like when Digital Extremes was the first developer to announce that they would be creating a title for "next-gen" systems. The trailer took place on what appeared to be a alien craft, where our unnamed hero skulked through the shadows. After getting our first taste of the future of gaming, our interest in the game was sky-high, but it basically dropped off the radar in a hurry. Did it get canceled? Would we ever see it? We had no idea, and neither did anyone else. Last week, however, we finally got a chance to see Dark Sector in action and running on an Xbox 360 dev kit. There have been a number of big changes made to the title since 2004 (there's not an alien to be seen), but it looks like everything is back on track.

Although no sequels have been announced, we were told right off the bat that Dark Sector was intended to be an origin story of sorts, similar to what you'd see in Issue #1 of a comic book. You'll play as Hayden Tanno, a former CIA cleaner (you know, those people that take care of "problems") who is sent to a former Soviet republic to determine what's behind a biological outbreak. Not surprisingly, it's not long before Hayden himself is infected by the pathogen, something that's pretty obvious once his whole right arm is transformed into a metal limb. He gains the power to produce a sharp, multi-bladed glaive (am I the only one that instantly thinks of the movie "Krull" when looking at this game?) that he can use to take out his foes in a variety of brutal manners.

Burn, baby, burn!

After that brief intro, the developers decided to walk us through the game in order to show off the different ways that you can do battle. Upon sneaking up on an enemy that was facing away from us, the demoer quickly pulled out his glaive and slit the poor guy's throat, although he mentioned that you can also perform up-close-and-personal kills without your bladed weapon. There's even a cover system in place, and while Dark Sector is a far cry from games like Rainbow Six Vegas and Gears of War, the cover mechanic is a great way for players to determine what challenges are facing them around every corner.

Once we had figured out how many enemies were waiting for us in a wide-open courtyard, our demoer quickly ran toward the closest enemies, cutting his throat and quickly grabbing the machine gun that fell at his feet. While there's no denying that the glaive is a completely bad-ass weapon, sometimes it pays to reach for some good old-fashioned cold steel. You can use any of the weapons that your enemies drop, and the gunplay is similar to that seen in just about any other third-person action game. Simply aim your reticule at your target, pull the trigger, and repeat as necessary. The reticule also controls where your glaive goes when you toss it, although the developers mentioned that you can call it back to your hand in mid-air.

Since there are some moments that you might need a little extra oomph, the developers have given the player an easy way to up the destructive power of their glaive. By simply tossing the weapon through fire, you can set it alight, and it will change the damage that it does when thrown. The same goes for electricity, which you can obtain by tossing the glaive at an overhead street lamp. This comes in handy during combat, but it also gave the developers a chance to create some environmental puzzles. For instance, there was one segment in which an explosive crate was blocking a door, and the player had to figure out that tossing the glaive into the fire first allows him to blow it up. OK, that one was kind of obvious, but we're hoping that the game features some tougher puzzles.

Upon blowing up the crate, the demoer took Hayden inside a bombed-out building, and it was immediately apparent that this wasn't a very good place to be hanging out. The music subtly changed, becoming more ominous in tone, and the interplay of light and shadow made for some downright creepy moments. The developers noted that they had been playing a lot of Resident Evil 4, something that was immediately apparent to everyone in attendance. They explained that the player wouldn't only be fighting the soldiers that we had encountered outside, they'd also have to deal with Maulers, baddies that carry inferon gas, which has the ability to negate Hayden's powers if he stays in the gas cloud too long. Apparently, Hayden isn't the only one that's been infected, as the demo ends with a horrific monster attacking our hero. Is that what he will ultimately become?

Nothing's Shocking

While the game is still very early in development and is still suffering from some framerate problems, it looks great, particularly when you take a gander as its impressive lighting engine. Light glints off of the glaive when it's flying through the air, and the weapon itself will automatically emit a bit of light when you're in a darkened area. All in all, the lighting effects are the most impressive thing the game has to offer (seriously, just take one look at the electrified glaive to see what I mean), but it also features a pretty robust particle system. It was a bit tough to tell how good the game's sound design is (after all, the event was in a noisy bar), but the score alternated perfectly between scary and intense.

So, will the first Xbox 360 ever announced live up to our expectations? Well, it's tough to say, since the game (somehow) still appears to early in development. That said, we're impressed by what we saw, and we're looking forward to getting a proper hands-on with the game. Dark Sector may have been a long time coming, but it looks like it might be well worth the wait.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Samurai Warriors 2 (Xbox 360/PS2) Confirmed for North America

2006-12-11T18:29:00.001-08:00

By: Jared Black

Koei has annoucned that Samurai Warriors 2: Empires will ship for Xbox 360 and PS2 on February 27, 2007. A "tactical action" game, the title combines intense action with card-based strategy. You can read more in the press release below:

Burlingame, CA-- December 08, 2006 -- KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced a North American ship date of February 27, 2007 for SAMURAI WARRIORS®2 EMPIRES. The Tactical Action game set in Feudal Japan will be available for both the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.

About SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES
SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES combines the most exciting aspects of Action, Fighting and Strategy games. At the start of the game Feudal Japan is divided into warring states and it is up to the player to resurrect a nation using equal amounts of strategy and strength! The game’s ultimate goal is to unite Japan’s 25 regions into a single nation under one ruler. Prior to each battle, the player will meet with their war council to discuss military and political affairs; then it’s time for combat.

SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is the first in KOEI’s successful line of “Empires” games to be set in Japan. Accordingly, the game’s deck of 90 policy cards, used to issue military commands and impose political policies, is boosted by 50 new cards inspired by Japanese history, while all-new formation cards are based on historically-authentic samurai attack formations.

Special events in the game chronicle major turning points in Japan’s history including “The Honnoji Incident” where the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga, met his demise, and “The Battle of Kawanakajima,” considered the largest and most prolonged encounter of the Warring States era.

Key product features include vicious multi-Musou attacks with up to four officers, 5 “Unification” scenarios plus 6 “Regional” scenarios, over 400 playable characters to choose from, a create your own warrior mode, as well as 2-player co-op play.

Developed by KOEI’s award-winning internal team, Omega Force, SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES is not yet rated by the ESRB. SAMURAI WARRIORS 2 EMPIRES for Xbox 360 is compatible with 480p and 720p HDTV, and features in game Dolby® Digital audio.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Hardware Inside Nintendo Wii Reviewed And Explained

2006-12-11T18:03:00.001-08:00

Submitted by Adrian Dunbaker

Nintendo Wii

Nintendos seventh generation gaming console was code named Revolution. It sought to becoming futuristic and including all conveniences like a wireless controller and Wii remote which has three dimensional functions. The Nintendo Wii also has Wii Connect 24 which can receive messages from the World Wide Web.

Slated for release in the US in mid Nov 2006, the Ninetendo Wii won the Game Critics Award for Best of Show and Best Hardware at the E3 2006. The hardware of the gaming console is state-of-art with the unit being the smallest measuring just 157 mm in height :

• The loading slot is in the front and accepts 12cm optical discs and 8 cms discs from Nintendo’s older console.

• The console will have two USB ports and one SD card slot.

• In Japan the console will have DVD –Video capabilities. A Sonic Solutions Cine Player CE DVD Navigator software engine will be used in consoles to be released in 2007 with DVD-Video functions.

• The Wii remote has accelerometers and infrared detection that enables positioning in 3D space. This means gamers can participate in the game using hand gestures as well as buttons. The controller connects to the Wii console through Bluetooth technology. There are umpteen functions like connectivity to other devices, 4KB non volatile memory and an accelerometer, analog stick and trigger buttons.

• The Wii has a sensor bar that can be positioned such that the Wii remote can be used as an accurate pointing device from a distance of 5 meters. However the sensor bar is sensitive to halogen lights and sunlight affecting its functions.

• The Wii CPU has a processor known as Broadway with a 90nm SOI CMOS process. The Memory of the Wii is 1T-SRAM.

• The Nintendo Wii has 512 MB built-in flash memory that can be expanded using an SD card.

• The Wii has four remote controller slots; one SD memory slot; two USB ports; one sensor bar port ;four Nintendo game cube controller ports; two Nintendo game cube memory card ports; WiFi 802.11.b/g wireless built in ports.

• The Wii can connect to the World Wide Web through the WiFi and USB to Ethernet adaptor.

The CNET editors have rated the Nintendo Wii as an 8 /10. According to experts at CNET the positive is the futuristic controller design with motion-sensitive gameplay options and the Wi-Fi is all set to extend free online services and game play. The Nintendo Wii is the most affordable of all GenX gaming systems. The negative in the Wii is short battery life, no advanced HD graphics or surround sound and inability to play CDs or DVDs.

What Nintendo Wii brings to gaming is an affordable console with motion sensitive controllers and a focus on fun filled gaming.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: wii - Google News)

Must Have Sony Playstation 3 Accessories Reviewed And Explained

2006-12-11T18:03:00.000-08:00

Submitted by Adrian Dunbaker

Logitech PlayStation 3 Chillstream Controller

The way games are played has changed drastically over the years. From simple board games to handheld games to TV games to sophisticated gaming consoles. And games are not exclusive to kids, teenagers, adults and seniors are hooked by the games and are investing in the sophisticated gaming devices and elaborate accessories.

Gamers competed with designers and manufactures to take gaming to new levels of excitement. This has lead to the creation of state-of-art accessories for the Sony play station. Here we take a close look at 3 accessories.

• The 8MB memory card for Sony Playstation 2: Most games are not completed in a single sitting and as an avid gamer if you want to save your game mid-way to play later, or you want to save characters you have unlocked or levels you have jumped then you just cannot do so on the CD. To write data and save games you need a memory card.

Most techies will tell you that a memory card is vital to a devoted gamer, it’s the very heart of a gaming console. The market has original Sony as well as third party memory cards which can be used on the playstation. An original Sony memory card retails for approximately USD 15-USD 20 and has 15 blocks on which games can be stored. The immediate advantage or an original versus a third party card is that the original Sony Playstation cards rarely crash and cause loss of valuable gaming data. They last more that four years and you can write and overwrite data with no problems at all. If you are just a casual gamer then you may just need a 15 block Sony original memory card that will offer great security and dependability.

• Logitech Driving Force Pro Steering Wheel for Sony Playstation2: Gamers who are avid driving game players just cannot function without this Force Pro Steering Wheel. According to players using the steering wheel with the Sony Playstation 2 brings realism into the game and gives immediate force feedback. When playing driving simulator games the wheel introduces realism and the gamer can feel the torque and turn when confronted with different weather and road conditions during a game. It clues the player on how to reach new gaming levels by giving an indication of when to change tires, speed, and so on. It is made of durable material and offers a great grip and brings realism and comfort into driving games. The set up can be customized to suit individual needs. The wheel can be used for the playstation as well as PC, all a player has to do is download the USB steering wheel drivers from the Logitech site. The driving wheel retails at USD 129.99.

* Sony Network Adaptor : This allows players to play with gamers online. Using this accessory a Sony PlayStation gamer can expand his gaming base and test his gaming skills with gamers all over the world. The Network Adaptor permits gamers to compete against others, evolve in games, learn new tricks, and reach new levels of excitement. Costing around USD 35.49, the adaptor supports broad band as well as dial up internet connectivity. The CNET editor’s review rated this accessory as 7.3 out of 10 which means very good.

Every gaming console has a parallel accessory market and gamers need to weigh the pros and cons of Sony Playstation accessories before spending valuable money. Two great sites that give in depth and informed reviews are CNET.com and Eopinions.com. Learn all about gaming accessories and only buy the best.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: playstation - Google News)

Registration Opens for Xbox Live Arcade Challenge

2006-12-11T17:57:00.005-08:00

Microsoft opened today the registration for the first two events in the Xbox Live Arcade Challenge. The first two events feature the recently released Xbox Live Arcade titles “Lumines Live!” and “Small Arms.”

Xbox Live Arcade Challenge is a brand new program featuring fully integrated global tournaments designed specifically for all people playing Xbox Live Arcade games. The program is for all levels of gamers – those who like to compete and win, and those who simply want to play and join in with friends. Gamers can play for points, prizes, and fun.

Competitors in each event have the opportunity to win prizes ranging from a high definition plasma TV to Xbox hardware and Microsoft Points tokens.

With “Lumines Live!,” between 17th December and 23rd December, gamers will compete in Time Attack Mode. Between 24th December and 30th December, “Small Arms” players will compete in ranked matches with the best brawlers emerging victorious. Prior to the competition, the "Small Arms" leaderboard will be reset to provide a level playing field.

To see the complete list of prizes, as well as register and read the official rules, please visit http://www.xboxlivetournament.com/.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Xbox Live News)

Xbox 360 HD DVD drive running on a MBP

2006-12-11T17:57:00.004-08:00

by Ben Drawbaugh
Filed under: DIY, HD DVD

Every now and then you see something on the Internet that makes you think, Why didn't I think of that? It isn't really that extraordinary, but one step ahead of what you might have thought of. This is one of those videos where a Engadget HD contributor not only made his Xbox 360 HD DVD drive work with his computer, but took it one step further and got it running on his Mac Book Pro, unfortunately he used Boot Camp to make it happen. It would have been cool if it would work with OS X, but it appears we will have wait till Apple supports it, with any luck we will know more at Macworld Expo.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: xbox 360 - Google News)

Xbox Live Arcade Wednesday's Assault Heroes

2006-12-11T17:57:00.003-08:00

Microsoft announced today that “Assault Heroes”, a vehicular combat action game developed specifically for Xbox Live Arcade will arrive this Wednesday. The game will be available for download on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360 beginning Wednesday, December 13, after 0800 GMT (1:00 a.m. PST).

As the only surviving members of an elite Special Forces unit, it is up to you to find the secret underground lab. Go the mission alone or fight side-by-side with a friend in the two-player cooperative mode. Navigate your heavily armed 4x4, speed boat or travel on foot and blast your way through enemy-infested territory. Prepare to be assaulted by waves of formidable enemies with unrelenting attacks.

Assault Heroes will be available worldwide for 800 Microsoft Points.

Click here to view all screenshots

Features:

Multiplayer co-op mode – Two players may play co-operatively online via Xbox Live or offline (same screen) with enhanced weapons and special attacks to encourage team-based campaigns.
Dynamic gameplay – Operate an armed 4X4, speed boat or simply fight on foot for a quick change of pace.
Arsenal of weapons – Equip characters with miniguns, flak cannons, flamethrowers, grenades and nukes to destroy everything in your path.
Realistic special effects –Destructible terrain and advanced physics engine provide a truly engaging Arcade experience.
Highly detailed graphics – Vehicles leave tracks in the sand, send parts flying when they explode, and leave smoke trails when taking damage.
Exhilarating Action-Packed Experience – Challenging and graphically compelling levels (including bonus sublevels) for fast-paced and addictive play. Xbox Live Leaderboards

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Xbox Live News)

Lost Planet Theatrical HD Trailer

2006-12-11T17:57:00.002-08:00

Set within the merciless frozen tundra of a hostile planet, humans struggle for survival as conflicts arise between man, the surrounding indigenous creatures and the monstrous beings that have invaded. With a gripping single player campaign and numerous multiplayer modes, Lost Planet promises to deliver an intense cinematic gameplay experience when it is released next winter.

Today Capcom has released a 60-second theatrical trailer of Lost Planet that is available on the Xbox Live Marketplace for download.

You can also watch the trailer for Capcom's futuristic shooter right here at TeamXbox.

1280x720 HD | 640x360 SD

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Movies & Trailers News)

SEGA to Bring ALIEN Franchise to NextGen Consoles

2006-12-11T17:57:00.001-08:00

SEGA and 20th Century Fox announced today a a worldwide agreement to bring video games based on the ALIEN franchise to next-generation consoles. The first two games being published under this agreement will be a first-person shooter and a role-playing game. Below is the press release with the announcement:

SEGA and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising to Bring Alien Franchise to Next-Gen Systems

Newest License Underscores Key Strategy for SEGA Growth While Reinvigorating Classic Fan Favorite

LONDON & SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SEGA® of America Inc., SEGA® Europe Ltd. and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising today announced a worldwide exclusive agreement to bring game content based on the critically-acclaimed Alien film franchise to next-generation gaming systems. Multiple titles, including a first-person shooter and a role playing game, are currently in pre-production with the first to be released in 2009. Securing the rights to produce Alien titles reinforces SEGA’s strategy of combining premium licensed content with original IP to aggressively expand its global business.

“As a direct result of Fox’s efforts over the past 27 years, Alien has become one of the most recognized franchises in the motion picture industry,” said Simon Jeffery, President and Chief Operating Officer, SEGA of America, Inc. “SEGA will utilize the power of next-gen systems to blend the time-honored story with leading edge design technology to deliver a riveting and suspenseful gameplay experience.”

“Alien is one of those special franchises that has continued to thrive in licensing long after it has left theaters. The L & M program has been very successful over the years because we have partnered with the best companies in each category and created appealing products that become must-haves for the extremely loyal Alien fans,” added Elie Dekel, Executive Vice President, Fox Licensing & Merchandising. “We look forward to partnering with SEGA, a known leader in the gaming industry, to expand the program to the next generation gaming systems and bring the franchise to life with the newest technology and gameplay.”

Since its 1979 debut, Alien and its three sequels have grossed more than $557 million worldwide, garnering numerous awards, including two Academy Awards®. In 2002, Alien was deemed “culturally significant” by the United States Library of Congress and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. For more information, please visit www.sega.com/aliens.

About SEGA® of America

SEGA of America, Inc. is the American arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. SEGA of America’s Web Site is located at www.sega.com.

About SEGA® Europe, Ltd.

SEGA Europe Ltd. is the European Publishing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based SEGA Corporation, and a worldwide leader in interactive entertainment both inside and outside the home. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive entertainment software products for a variety of hardware platforms including PC, wireless devices, and those manufactured by Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. SEGA Europe’s Web Site is located at www.sega-europe.com.

About Twentieth Century Fox

A recognized industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Licensing and Merchandising licenses and markets properties worldwide on behalf of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Twentieth Television and Fox Broadcasting Company, as well as third party lines. The division is aligned with Twentieth Century Fox Television, one of the top suppliers of primetime entertainment programming to the broadcast networks.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Video Game Industry News)

Armored Core 4 Cinematic Trailer

2006-12-11T17:57:00.000-08:00

by Matt Gibbs

Yet more videos for you to download and check out, this time it's Sega & From Software's mech shooter, Armored Core 4 getting the cinematic treatment. Click below to view the video

Building on the success of Chromehounds, Armored Core 4 will deliver an action-packed experience that will not only cater to the diehard fans, but will attract new fans to the mech-based combat genre.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Virtua Tennis 3d Screenshots & More

2006-12-11T17:56:00.006-08:00

by Matt Gibbs

Direct from Sega we bring you two new 3d screenshots from Virtua Tennis 3 to explore, as well as several "normal" screenshots taken from the Bulls Eye mini-game. The 3d screens are of Gael Monfils and Martina Hingis, just use your mouse to navigate around the image.

Take on the world’s greatest tennis stars on any court surface worldwide; with newly added players and improvements to the game’s AI, Virtua Tennis 3 has upped the challenge to becoming the top seed of the tennis world. In Career Mode, gamers will travel the world and take on the biggest stars of the tennis world. Improvements to the Player Creation Mode allow gamers to customise their own tennis star with increased detail like never before.

Click here to view the Gael Monfils 3d screenshot

Click here to view the Martina Hingis 3d screenshot

Click here to see the other screenshots

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Microsoft Releases XNA Game Studio Express & Launches XNA Creators Club

2006-12-11T17:56:00.005-08:00

by Matt Gibbs

XNA Game Studio Express has been released so all you would be Xbox 360 game developers out there can get to work on making your game ideas a reality. Here's the official press release from Microsoft.

-- Press Release Begins --

Your World. Your Game. With today’s release of Microsoft XNA Game Studio Express and the launch of the XNA Creators Club, this phrase has never been more true. Based on the easy-to-use Visual C# 2005 Express Edition and Microsoft .NET Compact Framework, XNA Game Studio Express opens up the world of game development to the masses and is now available for free to anyone with a Windows XP-based PC at http://www.msdn.com/XNA. With the release of XNA Game Studio Express, Microsoft Corp. unveiled the XNA Creators Club, opening up video game development to untapped creative minds, enabling anyone to affordably build and play amazing game ideas on Xbox 360 systems for the first time ever.

The XNA Creators Club is available on Xbox Live Marketplace for £30.00 for a four-month subscription, or £65.00 for an annual subscription. Both subscriptions provide aspiring game developers with access to thousands of game assets from Microsoft and key supporters such as Turbo Squid Inc., as well as white papers, specialised starter kits, samples and technical product support to help turn Your World, Your Game into a reality.

“The XNA Creators Club is really the first of its kind — an opportunity to join a community of other developers who are empowered to bring their game ideas to life on a next-generation console system,” said Chris Satchell, general manager of the Game Developer Group at Microsoft. “When it comes to encouraging development on XNA Game Studio Express and through the XNA Creators Club, the limits are truly endless. What users will see today is just the beginning of the plans we have to revolutionize game development one creative game idea at a time.”

In addition, to celebrate the worldwide launch of XNA Game Studio Express, the “Dream-Build-Play” contest will be open to XNA Game Studio Express customers on Windows as well as those on Xbox 360 through the XNA Creators Club membership. The contest offers the opportunity for the community to showcase its innovation and talent to the world, culminating in the incredible chance for the winner’s game to be published on Xbox Live Arcade, the premier source for downloadable independent, retro and original games. The “Dream-Build-Play” contest will be launched in January. Additional contest details will be available at http://www.dreambuildplay.com.

“Xbox Live Arcade has opened up a wealth of new publishing opportunities for established and independent developers alike, so it made perfect sense to also extend this privilege to hobbyists and amateur programmers,” said Greg Canessa, group manager of Xbox Live Arcade at Microsoft. “We have a tremendous opportunity to shine the spotlight on up-and-coming talent through the ‘Dream-Build-Play’ contest, and we can’t wait to share their creativity with our gaming community around the world.”

To coincide with the release of XNA Game Studio Express, XNA supporter GarageGames has launched an open beta for its Torque X platform, including Torque Game Builder. Based on the XNA Framework, the easy-to-use Torque X tools bring drag-and-drop game development to Windows and Xbox 360. Final availability of the Torque X platform is scheduled for early 2007.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Lost Planet HD Theater Trailer Available

2006-12-11T17:56:00.004-08:00

by Matt Gibbs

Earlier we reported on a Lost Planet theatrical trailer that would be playing 4 December through 31 December in Times Square. Well now you don't have to travel to the Big Apple to view it, just download it from us!

Combining a gripping single player campaign and intense multiplayer modes with support for up to 16 players via Xbox Live online game service, Lost Planet promises to be an epic gaming masterpiece. Taking full advantage of Xbox 360's unprecedented power, Lost Planet will contain an unrivalled level of detail as advanced light sourcing is used to ensure a realistic presentation that enhances every explosion, smoke and particle effect. Enormous world maps unfold as players battle hostile creatures in blistering weather conditions across vast snow fields and deserted cities either on foot or in armed Vital Suits.

Lost Planet's action-packed multiplayer demo is available for free download on Xbox Live Marketplace. For gamers who preorder either the standard or collector's edition of the game with participating retailers, they will receive a special token card with a unique code that will allow them to download a separate, special version of the demo which contains an additional multiplayer map. Capcom debuted Lost Planet's multiplayer gameplay at this year's Leipzig Games Convention, where its riveting action netted top honors as the Best Xbox 360 Game at the show. In addition, the game was chosen by Tokyo Game Show attendees as one of the winners of the illustrious Future Award.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Unleash the Carnage! Assault Heroes on Xbox Live

2006-12-11T17:56:00.003-08:00

by Matt Gibbs

Non-stop vehicular combat action at its best is coming to Xbox Live Arcade this Wednesday with Assault Heroes. Developed specifically for Xbox Live Arcade, this fresh, innovative action combat game from Wanako Studios and published by Sierra Online, a division of Vivendi Games, will be available for download on Xbox Live Arcade for Xbox 360 beginning Wednesday, December 13, after 0800 GMT (1:00 a.m. PST).

In Assault Heroes, gamers take on the role of the only surviving member of an elite special forces unit searching for a secret underground lab. Gamers may take on the mission alone or fight side-by-side with a friend in the two-player cooperative mode. Assault Heroes puts players into a heavily armed 4X4, maneuverable speed boat or trusty military-issue footwear, blasting their way through enemy-infested territory while being assaulted by waves of formidable enemies with unrelenting attacks.

Game Features:

Multiplayer co-op mode – Two players may play co-operatively online via Xbox Live or offline (same screen) with enhanced weapons and special attacks to encourage team-based campaigns.
Dynamic gameplay – Operate an armed 4X4, speed boat or simply fight on foot for a quick change of pace.
Arsenal of weapons – Equip characters with miniguns, flak cannons, flamethrowers, grenades and nukes to destroy everything in your path.
Realistic special effects –Destructible terrain and advanced physics engine provide a truly engaging Arcade experience.
Highly detailed graphics – Vehicles leave tracks in the sand, send parts flying when they explode, and leave smoke trails when taking damage.
Exhilarating Action-Packed Experience – Challenging and graphically compelling levels (including bonus sublevels) for fast-paced and addictive play.
Xbox Live Leaderboards

Download Assault Heroes beginning on Wednesday, December 13, at 1 a.m. PST on Xbox Live Arcade for 800 Microsoft Points.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)

Halo 2 Machinimist Makes it Big

2006-12-11T17:56:00.002-08:00

by Nelson Rodriguez

Against all odds, the folks who have used the Halo 2 game engine to create the machinima hit "This Spartan Life" have been selected to make some flicks for the Spike TV game awards. If only someone had told me you could find success this way, I would never have abandoned my dream of becoming the next Steven Spielberg.

Award-winning New York independent filmmaker Chris Burke, a finalist at the recent 2006 Machinima Film Festival, held at the Museum of the Moving Image, has once again been tapped to produce machinima content for Spike TV’s Video Game Awards.

Using popular videogame Halo® 2 as the backdrop of “This Spartan Life,” his “talk show in gamespace,” Burke has created exclusive online-only segments featuring such guests as Jared Palomar of the rock band Augustana, Geoff Keighley, host of Spike TV’s GameHead, Julian Gerighty, producer of the blockbuster game Splinter Cell: Double Agent, and Blizzard Entertainment’s Tristan Pope and Terran Gregory, the duo behind the machinima for the World of Warcraft-themed 10th season premiere of South Park.

The first segment, highlighting all-female competitive gaming team The Frag Dolls, is already online, with the remaining spots to appear as part of the run-up to the show, which airs December 13th at 10PM with Samuel L. Jackson as the returning host and special appearances by Tenacious D, rockers AFI and 50 Cent.

Click here to read complete article, (Source: Planet Xbox 360)