Gamenikki

Fanatec®, a leading brand of high-end input devices for game consoles and PCs, today introduced the Porsche® 911 Turbo Racing Wheel (MSRP: $349.99) for PC and Sony PlayStation® 3 (PS3). It offers Porsche fans and gamers alike an authentic look and feel along with a rich feature-set that delivers a genuine Porsche racing feeling when playing games such as Gran Turismo 5: Prologue, Racedriver: GRID, rFactor, etc. Starting in early May 2008, this product will be sold exclusively at www.FANATEC.com.

Licensed by Porsche Lizenz- und Handelsgesellschaft mbH, the Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo Racing Wheel offers gamers latency free wireless USB technology (wheel and pedals), three force feedback motors and smooth belt drive, both of which help to deliver sensational realism, 6+1 speed H-pattern gear stick with realistic shifting feel, and authentic wireless pedals with realistic clutch pedal (with declining resistance) and brake with soft-stop. The wheel itself is covered with fine, automotive grade leather.

Other key features include:

1. TUNING display: allows gamers to change settings like sensitivity or Force Feedback during gameplay
2. Adjustable turning angle: changes can be made directly on the wheel to 900°, 360°, 180° or in 1° steps by software
3. Extra strong Force Feedback effects: Mabuchi RS 550 Motor
4. Additional Force Feedback actuators in the wheel: stimulate motor vibrations
5. Extra smooth and silent belt drive without mechanical dead zone
6. 2 separate shifters: H-pattern and sequential
7. Illuminated buttons: show different symbols whether you connect the wheel to the PlayStation or the PC
8. 1 GB USB flash drive: Driver and manual are stored on flash drive in the shape of a Porsche key



For more information and additional features on the Fanatec Porsche 911 Turbo Racing Wheel, visit: www.911wheel.com

Additional tests and reviews can be found at:

http://www.porsche911turbowheel.de/?q=taxonomy/term/25

“It took us seven years to get the Porsche license and their one major condition was that we develop the best wheel out there,” said Thomas Jackermeier, CEO, Endor AG. “It was a big challenge for us and it took an enormous effort but we now know that it was worth it!”

Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced that the DUALSHOCK®3 wireless controller will be available at retailers nationwide beginning this week for $54.99 (MSRP). DUALSHOCK 3 incorporates both the rumble feature and motion sensing SIXAXIS™ technologies for a more realistic, interactive and intuitive gaming experience on PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) system.

DUALSHOCK 3 will enhance the gameplay experience on future PS3 titles, including the highly-anticipated Gran Turismo™ 5 Prologue, the next installment of the billion-dollar selling racing franchise, launching in two weeks in North America. DUALSHOCK 3 will also bring the rumble feature to a lineup of nearly 30 PS3 titles as well as compatible PS one® classics already available. Some titles may require a software update, and users will be prompted to download any updates upon starting the specific games. A complete list of current titles compatible with DUALSHOCK 3 is copied below. This list will also be available soon at http://us.playstation.com/.

DUALSHOCK 3 maintains the award-winning design and precise, responsive features of PlayStation controllers along with the highly sensitive motion-control SIXAXIS system. In June, a limited edition bundle including METAL GEAR SOLID®4: GUNS OF THE PATRIOTS, an 80GB PS3 system, and one DUALSHOCK 3 controller will be available for $499.99 (MSRP).

Harmonix, the leading developer of music-based games, and MTV Games, a division of MTV Networks, which is a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with distribution partner Electronic Arts, Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS), today announced plans to release the award-winning music video game Rock Band on the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo in the U.S. and Canada on June 22, 2008 for the suggested retail price of $169.99.

Rock Band for Wii will be released as a Special Edition bundle including the software, drums, microphone and a wireless guitar. Stand alone instruments will also be available on June 22nd for people who want to build their band one instrument at a time or want to play the drum versus drum game mode. The game will feature 63 songs including five bonus songs for Wii gamers to enjoy.

“The Wii’s success among casual and core gamers of all ages makes it an ideal match for the cross-generational appeal of the music featured in Rock Band,” says Bob Picunko, Vice President of Electronic Games and Interactive Products, MTV.

“The social interaction and addictive nature of the Rock Band experience is a perfect fit for the Wii and will undoubtedly be fun for the entire family,” says Steve Singer, licensing VP from Nintendo.

Rock Band is an all-new platform for music fans and gamers to interact with music like never before. The game challenges players to put together a band and tour for fame and fortune – all while learning to master lead/bass guitar, drums and vocals. Featuring the most master recordings of any music game ever by the world’s biggest rock artists, Rock Band includes tracks that span every genre of rock ranging from alternative and classic rock to heavy metal and punk. Rock Band has garnered over 40 awards this year including Game Critics Award: Best of Show E3 2007 and three awards at The 11th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards including Outstanding Innovation in Gaming, Family Game of the Year, and Outstanding Achievement in Soundtrack.

The following titles will be added to our unlimited play library for our subscribers:

Subscription Games

Metal Combat (PC-WIN)
Mr. Robot (PC-WIN)
Putter Golf (Genesis)
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Covert Ops Essential (PC-WIN)
Sub Hunt (Intellivision)
Street Fighter 3 Third Strike (Dreamcast)

Our FREE play service at www.GameTap.com will also be adding the following game to its weekly rotation, bringing the total number of free games to 71:

Texas Hold ‘em

We’ve heard the call - usually around the time we update the PLAYSTATION Store - from loyal PS3/PSP owners who’d like to give (or receive) these cards as a gift, and from those who’d like an alternative to using a credit card to purchase things on the PLAYSTATION Store. So here’s an update: Yes, the option many of you have been asking for - PLAYSTATION Network Cards - are coming, and should start appearing at retailers in early ‘08. The cards will be redeemable via the PLAYSTATION Store for PC, and on the PLAYSTATION 3 to supply the wallet with funds to spend on games, add-ons, and other paid content.

This week GameTap reaches a new milestone in gaming! 2K Games’ Sid Meier’s Civilization IV, one of the most popular and internationally acclaimed PC games ever, has been selected as the 1,000th game added to the GameTap network. Fans interested in browsing all the games that make up the huge GameTap catalog can checkout an interactive photo mosaic available here: http://www.gametap.com/explore

Also, GameTap continues its support of the upcoming Hitman movie (opening nationwide on 11/21) by making the third game, Hitman: Contracts, available for free play at GameTap.com. Gamers now have full access to first three classic Hitman titles completely free of charge.

The following titles will be added to our unlimited play library for our subscribers:

Subscription Games

Armored Warriors (Arcade)
Sid Meier’s Civilization IV (PC-WIN)

Our FREE play service at www.GameTap.com will also be adding the following game to its weekly rotation, bringing the total number of free games to 50:

Hitman : Contracts

KOEI, recognized worldwide as the premier brand of strategy and action games, today announced Nobunaga’s Ambition®: Rise to Power, an epic historical simulation from legendary game producer Kou Shibusawa. The game is scheduled to ship to North American retailers beginning February 5, 2008, exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.

“The Nobunaga’s Ambition series defined the simulation genre when it first debuted in 1983. The
engrossing gameplay in many ways set the standard by which all other console simulation games
would be measured,” said Amos Ip, Senior Vice President at KOEI Corporation. “The franchise
continues to be enjoyed around the world and has garnered numerous awards. Now, with
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power the engrossing strategy and simulation elements are
presented in a rich 3D environment. KOEI is excited to reintroduce the Nobunaga’s Ambition series
to veteran players and to a new generation of fans.”

About Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power

Set during the 16th century, Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power sends players back in time to the
Sengoku (Warring States) period of Feudal Japan. It was during this time that the visionary
Nobunaga Oda assembled the most advanced military force in Japan, and instituted new policies
that stimulated the growth of the nation’s economy.

In Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power, players will assume the role of Nobunaga, or of a rival
warlord, in their quest to unite Japan under one rule. Packed with 7 dramatic scenarios - from the
1551 Struggle for Power to the events following Nobunaga’s death in 1582, Nobunaga’s Ambition:
Rise to Power lets players embark on their quest from more than 300 different starting points.
For the first time in the series, military campaigns are carried out using an explosive 3D real-time
battle system. Plus a new command lets players go “all in” and risk their entire empire in battle. If
victorious, players will expand their empire, but a defeat could mean the total loss of their land.
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power is more than just a game of military domination. Life in Feudal
Japan is brought to life with remarkable detail. In vibrant castle towns the daily lives of characters
will unfold while players nurture their village into a flourishing empire. Players will also manage
government affairs and develop critical infrastructure such as ninja camps, blacksmiths, and
markets. A robust character edit function features a wide variety of character faces, the ability to edit stats, and let’s the player choose when and where the characters will appear.

Originally released in Japan as Nobunaga’s Ambition: Tenkasousei, Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to
Power marks the return of the series to North America. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Rise to Power is
developed by KOEI Co., Ltd and produced by Kou Shibusawa, the mastermind behind the
legendary Romance of the Three Kingdoms® and P.T.O.™ historical simulation series. The game is
rated “T” (Teen – Alcohol Reference, Mild Language, Violence) by the ESRB. Press can find
(watermark-free) assets at gamespress.com. For the latest information on Nobunaga’s Ambition:
Rise to Power, please visit www.koei.com.

Get ready to get airborne! Medal of Honor Airborne™ for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system has gone gold and will be available nationwide on November 21, 2007.

Medal of Honor Airborne is the most recent addition to the revered series that has topped 31 million copies sold worldwide. Now, PlayStation 3 gamers are able to jump into the largest Allied Airborne Operations of WWII and become the hero that suppresses the Axis powers throughout Europe. Using an innovative approach to first-person shooter gaming, every level starts with the player’s ability to airdrop into combat from a C-47 airplane and choose where they land on the battlefield. The first step is everything and the player’s landing spot can change the course of battle. Conflict on the ground offers strategic choice in vertical, open battle spaces with a wealth of attack routes and flanking opportunities.

In addition to the unique game design, Medal of Honor Airborne delivers an immersive experience of WWII which is complimented by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino who has scored the soundtrack. An esteemed composer for numerous film and TV projects such as “Lost”, “Alias,” M:i:III (2007), The Incredibles (2004), and most recently Ratatouille (2007), Giacchino has been repeatedly recognized for his contributions to theatrical composition and score. As the original composer and creator of the memorable theme music for the Medal of Honor series, he helped set the bar for using music to bring emotion into gaming. Giacchino’s extraordinary talents and musical sensibility have been utilized once again to bring a new dimension to the WWII FPS experience of Medal of Honor Airborne.

Atari, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATAR), one of the world’s most recognized brands and a third-party video game publisher, today announced that both Fantasy Wars and Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey for Windows PC have shipped to retailers across North America. Fantasy Wars is rated "T" for Teen and is now available at a suggested retail price of $39.99. Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey is rated “M” for Mature, and is now available at a suggested retail price of $19.99. Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey is also set to castaway on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system next week for a suggested retail price of $19.99. Both Fantasy Wars and Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey were produced by 1C, a leading publisher and distributor of computer games in Eastern and Central Europe.

"The blending of turn-based strategy and role-playing elements in Fantasy Wars and action and role-playing elements in Swashbucklers is sure to captivate gamers," said Todd Slepian, Producer, Atari, Inc. "The release of these two titles solidifies our relationship with 1C and our commitment to distributing fun-filled games."

Set in a fantasy world rife with war, Fantasy Wars is a hex-based tactical strategy game with three interwoven campaigns and an in-depth storyline. In a world of Humans, Orcs, Dwarfs and Elven races, players will participate in castle sieges and reconnaissance operations, all in sophisticated three-dimensional worlds. Players will experience epic real-time battles from afar or zoom in to see individual numbers in the ranks.

In Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey, players will become the captain of a privately owned vessel able to sail freely from the southern coasts of the United States to the North Caribbean. Would-be pirates will engage in naval combat and strong on-foot gameplay while slashing through various locations and confronting enemies. With an advanced role-playing system, gamers will be able to develop and master skills, weapons and moves while upgrading their ships at the same time.

For more information about Fantasy Wars, Swashbucklers: Blue vs. Grey and Atari's entire product line-up, please visit www.Atari.com.

Today Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) announced the company will donate the original SimCity™ — the blockbuster 1989 game credited with giving rise to the city-building game genre—to each computer in the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) initiative. OLPC is a not-for-profit humanitarian effort to design, manufacture and distribute inexpensive laptops with the goal of giving every child in the world access to modern education. By gifting SimCity onto each OLPC laptop, EA is providing users with an entertaining way to engage with computers as well as help develop decision-making skills while honing creativity. This is the first time a major video game publisher has gifted a game to the world.

In SimCity, the player takes on the role of mayor of a new municipality—responsible for building and maintaining a place where citizens can work and live happily. Doing so requires laying out essentials such as housing, transport links, schools, factories and shops. The job also requires an ability to choose wisely—for example, some power sources pollute, while others do not but are more expensive. Players must also be financially savvy—raising taxes enough to guarantee an income that can be allocated to public services such as policing and road repair, but not so high that business growth is hampered or that citizens revolt. The mayor must always be prepared for emergency situations as well, as earthquakes, floods and fires can wreak havoc on the town and require an immediate response so that fallout can be contained.

OLPC will begin distributing laptops in countries such as Uruguay, Peru, Mexico, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Haiti, Cambodia and India by the end of 2007. The idea to connect SimCity with OLPC came from internet pioneer, activist and OLPC advisor John Gilmore who knew the game’s history and recognized its potential relevance to the not-for-profit project. Not long after its 1989 release, SimCity became a phenomenon, winning more than 24 domestic and international awards. The game soon made its way into more than 10,000 classrooms as an educational tool and became part of the annual Future City Competition, a contest that still runs in seventh and eighth grade classrooms today.

“SimCity is entertainment that’s unintentionally educational. Players learn to use limited resources to build and customize their cities. There are choices and consequences, but in the end, it’s a creativity tool that’s only limited by the player’s imagination,” said Steve Seabolt, vice president of global brand development, The Sims Label. “The game should prove to be an incredibly effective way of making the laptop relevant, engaging, and fun, particularly for first time players. We are thrilled to be making this contribution to OLPC to help meet their goal of educating the children of the world.”

Adding to the legendary set list for Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock, Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced that master recordings from Grammy Award winning artists Velvet Revolver and the Foo Fighters will be the first downloadable track packs for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system for the month of November. Both packs are now available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and will be released on PLAYSTATION®Store later this month.

The Velvet Revolver Track Pack includes master recordings of “Messages,” “She Builds Quick Machines” and the 2004 Grammy Award winner for Best Hard Rock Performance, “Slither.” The Foo Fighters Track Pack includes master recordings of “The Pretender,” “This Is a Call” and the 2002 Grammy Award winner for Best Rock Song, “All My Life.”

Additionally, later in November, the Boss Battle anthems will be available, free of charge. Originally composed music by Slash and Tom Morello along with “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” can be downloaded to play outside of Career mode.

“The Guitar Hero franchise was a pioneer into the music download space for next generation gaming,” said Dusty Welch, Head of Publishing for Activision/RedOctane®. “We're excited to provide Guitar Hero fans an opportunity to download and play their favorite hits from legendary artists.”

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock contains explosive new content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer game modes allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true rock status. The game features a star-studded soundtrack including master tracks by legendary artists such as Aerosmith, Guns ‘N’ Roses, The Rolling Stones, Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine and Pearl Jam, as well as original songs by guitar icons Slash and Tom Morello. While continuing to retain all the key features from their prior legendary performances, fresh downloadable content will be available on multiple platforms, and players can now shred to a killer set list from many of the most popular rock songs ever recorded.

For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans are able to thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform, including exclusive Gibson Guitar's Les Paul model for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo, and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system gamers also get to shred on a new exclusive shape, Gibson’s Kramer guitar, popularized by hard rockers and known for its body design, pickups, electronics and construction for furious finger fretting.

Trend Micro, Incorporated (TSE: 4704), a leader in network antivirus and Internet content security software, today announced a new total Web security service for PLAYSTATIONÒ3 (hereinafter referred to as PS3TM) released by Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Trend Micro Web Security for PS3 is expected to be available on November 8, and will be free of charge until the end of April 2008*2. This service is the first globally supported Web security service for a home game system. The service provision starts on November 8 as part of PS3’s system software update version 2.00 for PS3s sold worldwide with the user interface in 16 languages*3.

Overview of “Trend Micro Web Security for PS3”

Home game systems with Web site browsing capabilities will continue to proliferate, and Web browsing via a game console is expected to become more and more popular. With the growing trend, users may also become more susceptible to malicious Web sites through the game system, or may have a chance to become the victim of cybercrime that targets monetary transactions such as shopping, banking, and securities trading through Web sites.

This service is developed as a module especially for PS3 using Trend Micro’s own Web reputation and URL filtering technology. By using this service, a wide range of PS3 users can feel safe to browse the Internet.

■ Function: Blocks malicious and harmful websites

Access to websites that are classified into specific categories (Adult/Sex, Alcohol/Tobacco, Crime, Cults/The Occult, Gambling, Hacking/Proxy Avoidance, Illegal Drugs, Sex Education, Violence/Hate/Racism, Weapons/Military, etc.) can be blocked simply by going to the PS3 Internet Browser menu,*4 selecting “Tool,” and then selecting “Trend Micro Web Security for PS3 ” from “Browser Security.” A password will be needed.

■ Blocking Mechanism: Web reputation combined with URL filtering

When a website is accessed from PS3 , Trend Micro in-the-cloud databases are looked up. The URL filtering database classifies Web sites into categories, and the Web reputation database is highly immediate in evaluating Web pages, domains and IP addresses. By using both capabilities together, malicious Web pages and Web sites that were previously difficult to handle only with URL filtering can also be blocked.

■ Service provision begins on: November 8, 2007

The service is provided by updating the PS3 system software to Version 2.00, available starting on November 8.

■ Service Charge: The service will be provided free of charge until the end of April 2008*5.



Footnotes

*1 Source: Trend Micro. The first total web security service combining URL filtering & Web reputation.
*2 It will be provided free of charge until the end of April on a trial basis. The date and method to switch to a pay service and the price will be announced as soon as a decision is made.
*3 Same as PS3 language support.
*4 The categories to be blocked are predetermined. Users cannot select a category.
*5 The service will be provided free of charge until the end of April on a trial basis. The date and method to switch to a pay service and the price will be announced as soon as a decision is made. For service overview, see http://webclassify.trendmicro.com

This week GameTap proudly introduces the world premiere of Sam and Max’s second season of episodic adventure with the first new episode, “Ice Station Santa”. This episode is available exclusively on GameTap for 24 hours, and will be available for unlimited play for subscribers from then on.

This week GameTap continues its support of the upcoming Hitman movie by making the second game, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, available for free play at GameTap.com. Also, next Thursday marks the milestone addition of GameTap’s 1,000th game, which will be revealed next week.

The following titles will be added to our unlimited play library for our subscribers:

Subscription Games

Sam & Max Season 2: Episode 1 “ Ice Station Santa”
Shadow Watch (PC-WIN)
Virtua Fighter (Saturn)

Our FREE play service at www.GameTap.com will also be adding the following 5 games to its weekly rotation, bringing the total number of free games to 49.

Hitman 2: Silent Assassin
Joust
Space Invaders
Defender
Root Beer Tapper

SouthPeak Games will be releasing a playable demo of their massive free-roaming RPG adventure - Two Worlds - tomorrow (Thursday) on Xbox LIVE (for download). (www.2-worlds.com)

The demo offers a huge portion of Two Worlds’ expansive single-player map to explore, complete with numerous quests to solve and wandering monsters to battle.

Also, based on feedback received from players, a free title update will be coming soon addressing issues some players have experienced. Here are some of the improvements players can expect:


Both platforms (PC and Xbox 360)

- Horse steering has been improved
- Character development curve not as steep over level 25
- HP regeneration slower for max values above 2000
- Death strike skill - executable by strike button while in sneak mode
- Critical hit skill fixed
- Damage is now allowed over 32000
- There is a cap on damage and armor at 99999
- Necromancer spells have been balanced
- Magical boosters - effect restricted to 5 boosters
- Stacking potions with different statistics - fixed
- Objects stacking - objects can't be stacked up if result has higher level requirements than current player level
- Equipment Class cap on 50
- When killing in towns - after you leave the town and go back guards will ask you to pay instead of immediately attacking you
- NPC's in towns don't resurrect
- Tweaked hi- level monster balance
- Wing Membrane ingredient added to Helllord
- Dragons strike not breakable by player hit
- Bomb traps attached to some chests and wardrobes
- Balanced number of lock picks in chests and wardrobes
- Walking under water and not dying has been fixed
- Inaccessible Cave north of Ashos has been fixed
- Multiplayer Lag issues have been improved
- Multiplayer too many skill points generated due to combat stats has been fixed
- Friendly fire disabled in RPG mode (players cannot damage each other)
- Resurrect spell on players has been disabled
- Experience points for killing players has been removed
- Disarming skill disabled against other players
- Freezing/stopping spells disabled against other players
- Multiplayer RPG quests given to all, reward splitter between players
- Team assault - main monuments 50 times stronger
- Barbarian - berserk skill in PvP reduced to 5
- Chest and wardrobe lock levels improved in multiplayer


PC specific:

- Issue of moving money between servers has been fixed
- Maps D2,E4,F4, Multiplayer Tharbakin - missing triangles or flying objects have been fixed
- Enter opens console in single player
- Horse steering - stopping horse by back key changed
- Cloning character when logging on new WarNet server is fixed
- Boosters disappearing in Arena modes
- Atmospheric fog for multiplayer towns added
- Chat over open dialogs possible (by F11 chat dialog)
- All PVP arenas unlocked from beginning


Xbox 360 specific:

- Improved single player framerate
- Interface - repeat changes selection left stick hold added
- Game HDD cache cleaning possibility - RB + A + B during game launch
- Achievements for 5 elements is fixed
- Map interface improvements - only one open quest at the time, quests selection box better visibility, hero location on map better visibility, quest name on tooltip
- Hit info fonts larger
- “BACK – Show Instruction” text disappears
- Double saving multiplayer characters to protect character lost from power-off or hard-locks
- Interface - no controls after "server refused connection" is fixed
- Doubling gold in multiplayer is fixed
- Doubling objects in multiplayer is fixed

Sierra Online, a division of Vivendi Games, has released Switchball™, a new puzzle game for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. The Switchball game challenges players to guide a transformable ball along extensive maze-like courses suspended in midair and set in stunning, expansive worlds. The game has already received critical praise, winning TeamXbox.com’s “Best Downloadable Game of E3” and “Editor’s Choice” awards, as well as a 9.4 out of 10 rating from the site.

“Switchball exemplifies the innovation and level of quality we are bringing to Xbox LIVE Arcade,” said Nicole Perez, vice president of marketing, Sierra Online. “Switchball’s striking graphics, as well as the physics-based gameplay, advances the genre.”

Developed by Atomic Elbow, the Switchball game features an advanced Ageia-based physics engine, making the physical puzzles intuitive and allowing players to interact with objects just as they would in the real world. Players solve their way through challenging levels packed with tricky obstacles, traps and mazes using a rolling ball that can be morphed four different ways – Marbleball, Airball, Powerball and Metalball - each with its own physical characteristics.

The 30 levels of labyrinths are set in five different beautifully rendered 3D environments. Set on docks hovering among the clouds, Skyworld requires players to switch between the Marbleball to balance and manipulate objects and the Metalball to ram heavy boxes off the path. The Airball easily floats over gaps in the course of Iceworld. Caveworld is set in the dark with glowing crystals and introduces players to the Powerball, which can be charged with different powers to solve a variety of dexterity challenges. The challenges become more complex in Cloudworld, which is set inside a large cloud of colorful gas. The most challenging level, Lavaworld, is set inside a huge volcano with fiery explosions – if players get one puzzle wrong they must start from the beginning!

In addition to the single-player game, players can team up online to solve complex puzzles in co-op mode or can go head-to-head with up to seven other players in race mode.

The Switchball game is rated E for Everyone and is available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 Microsoft points. A Windows PC version of the game is available at retail outlets nationwide, as well as top online gaming portals and the official game website at www.switchball.com. For more information on Switchball or to download a free trial visit www.switchball.com.

For those looking to rock out even harder this holiday season, Activision will deliver a special dual pack that includes the hit titles, Guitar Hero and Guitar Hero II. The two-disc software-only set is now available exclusively on the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system in retail stores nationwide, and aspiring rock gods can add these legendary games to their expanding Guitar Hero collection.
Guitar Hero, the original title of the wildly popular franchise, allows fans to choose from multiple rock characters and jam at concert venues that grow in size as their rock career progresses. Players can choose from various guitar options, exclusive character outfits, and unlockable songs while they perform to secure endorsements and reach ultimate rockstar status. Over 40 incredible rock anthems fill every stage of the game as axe-shredders rip through tracks such as "Iron Man" (as made famous by Black Sabbath), "More Than a Feeling" (as made famous by Boston), "Bark at The Moon" (as made famous by Ozzy Osbourne), "I Wanna Be Sedated" (as made famous by The Ramones), and many more.

Guitar Hero II, the sequel to the smash hit Guitar Hero, melts the knobs off players' amps with an expanded track list of over 60 new songs, characters, guitars, exciting gameplay modes, and visually-stunning rock venues that range from high school gyms to sold-out arenas and Stonehenge. Fans also have the opportunity to compete with their friends head to head in all new multiplayer modes, or form their own guitar duo and riff cooperatively by rocking the rhythm, lead, and bass. In addition, an all-new practice mode is included that will allow players to select specific sections of a song, slow it up, and master the difficult solos. Tracks from the set list include "Sweet Child O Mine" (as made famous by Guns N' Roses), "Free Bird" (as made famous by Lynard Skynard), "Woman" (as made famous by Wolfmother), and "You Really Got Me" (as made famous by Van Halen) among many others hit songs.

The No. 1-selling DVD game in the United States1 makes its video game premiere as Microsoft Game Studios, Screenlife Games and WXP debut “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” exclusively on Xbox 360. On store shelves today, “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” is a multiplayer trivia game that tests even the most seasoned pop culture trivia pros and allows up to four teams or individual players to relive moments from their favorite movies.

“Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” comes complete with four new wireless Big Button Pads, so each team or individual player has a buzzer for that realistic “game show” feel. The Big Button Pad takes its inspiration from the buzzers used by contestants in countless TV game shows throughout the years, but uses the latest infrared technology to minimize arguments over who answered first.

“Family rooms everywhere will be buzzing with the biggest stars and blockbusters from the silver screen as we launch ‘Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action’ on Xbox 360,” said Jeff Bell corporate vice president of Global Marketing, Xbox 360. “In the spirit of the game-show buzzers of yesteryear, our new Big Button Pad makes it easy for everyone to have a fun evening seeing whose movie knowledge reigns supreme.”

“We’re taking party gaming to the next level with ‘Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action’ for Xbox 360,” said Stuart Moulder, executive producer at Screenlife Games. “It’s the first trivia franchise for Xbox 360. We’ve brought the award-winning interactive experience of ‘Scene It?’ to this next-generation platform with high-definition movie clips, photo stills, audio clips and more.”

Movie buffs and trivia lovers everywhere will enjoy new questions never seen in any other “Scene It?” game. With new puzzle challenges, “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” is sure to keep players guessing all night long. The game features movie clips in HD format as well as hundreds of stills and audio clips from players’ favorite films. Also, new technology keeps track of questions that have already been asked, to minimize repeats.

Made exclusively for Xbox 360, “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action” is available in stores now for $59.99 (U.S. estimated retail price) and is rated T for Teen.

GameTap, the first-of-its-kind broadband entertainment network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (TBS, Inc.), announced that the season finale for its popular multiplayer online game “Myst Online: Uru Live” will launch today.

“Myst Online has been a great addition to our roster of GameTap Original titles,” said Ricardo Sanchez, GameTap’s vice president of content and creative director. “With our recent change to make content updates occur on a regular schedule, Myst Online is another example of how the episodic format can be effective across different styles of play.”

This season started in February and has already introduced multiple Ages, puzzles and dynamic characters that have drawn players into the ever-changing world of Uru. For the first time ever in a video game, the choices, actions, and experiences of the players themselves have helped drive the ongoing live storyline, which has expanded throughout the season.

“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to launch ‘Myst Online: Uru Live’ with GameTap,” says Rand Miller, CEO of Cyan Worlds and co-creator of Myst. “Being able to bring this dynamic world to the fans of the franchise and a brand new audience of explorers has been a great experience.”

Over the past several months, the great underground cavern of D'ni has been home to many ups and downs. Numerous new areas of the cavern have been restored, granting Explorers access to amazing new worlds and places. However, the road has not been easy for the D’ni Restoration Council (DRC) as they’ve had to overcome tragedies and adversities ranging from petty in-fighting to horrific, unexplained deaths.

Now the DRC must deal with the emergence of the Bahro creatures and the questions that have come with them. Each Council member has his own opinions on what will happen next. Will the Bahro War bring destruction to the cavern? Will the DRC find funding for further restoration work? There has been great progress. There have been setbacks. Still, the future remains as cloudy as ever.

In the season finale, Explorers will be able to explore new areas of Uru, including the new Age of Ahnonay, K’veer Island and Myst Island. In Ahnonay, an Age of deception, mystery and visual wonders spanning thousands of years, players will witness the deterioration of a rugged landscape as they travel through time to uncover the truth. It will require cooperation, investigation, a keen eye, and the comprehension of a subtle and clever ruse.

“Myst Online: Uru Live” includes elements unique to the Myst franchise, including the use of books as teleportation devices, exploration through wondrous, immersive worlds, and mind-challenging puzzles that can be solved alone or with a group. Myst Online also includes all of the key social features such as text and voice chat that make today’s massively multiplayer online games so popular.

New players interested in playing Myst Online can join the adventure now and play for free by visiting www.mystonline.com. The website also offers ways for players to catch up on the currently storylines and to receive a variety of hints and tips.

“Myst Online: Uru Live” was created exclusively for GameTap and is available to GameTap subscribers in the United States and Canada. The game is also available via direct download to consumers in select countries around the world. Expanding beyond computer borders as well, “Myst Online: Uru Live” was launched for Mac users last Spring.

This week GameTap proudly introduces Sid Meier’s Pirates! to “The Sid Meier’s Collection” along with an exclusive Sid Meier Interview on GameTap TV. Also, next Thursday marks the long anticipated return of the episodic adventures of Sam and Max with the first episode of Season 2, “Ice Station Santa”. Each new Sam and Max episode will make its worldwide debut on GameTap where it will be exclusively available for 24 hours for all Gold Level subscribers.

The following titles will be added to our unlimited play library for our subscribers:

Subscription Games

688 (I) Hunter Killer (PC-WIN)
Sid Meier's Pirates! (PC-WIN)
Shellshock: Nam 67 (PC-WIN)

Our FREE play service at www.GameTap.com will also be adding the following 2 games to its weekly rotation, bringing the total number of free games to 44.

Second Sight
Cannon Fodder

Free Play titles for Thursday, November 1st:

1. Sam and Max Season One Episode 4, “Abe Lincoln Must Die!”
2. Hitman: Codename 47
3. Street Fighter 2 Championship Edition
4. Tomb Raider: Legend
5. King of Fighters 95
6. Metal Slug
7. Second Sight
8. Legacy of Kain: Blood Omen 2
9. Jaws Unleashed
10. Elevator Action
11. The New Zealand Story
12. Zoo Keeper
13. Rainbow Islands
14. Twinkle Star Sprites
15. Ghouls 'N Ghosts
16. Ikari Warriors
17. Shock Troopers
18. Cannon Fodder
19. Buku Sudoku
20. Sensible Soccer 2006
21. Neo Turf Masters
22. Baseball Stars 2
23. Mega Man: The Power Battle
24. Vampire Savior
25. Darkstalkers: The Night Warriors
26. Zoo Empire
27. Restaurant Empire
28. Samurai Shodown
29. King of the Monsters
30. The Last Blade
31. Bubble Bobble
32. Rampage
33. Final Fight
34. Ghosts 'N Goblins
35. Captain Commando
36. Mercs
37. Fast Lanes Bowling
38. 1941
39. Disciples II: Rise of the Elves
40. Bloodrayne
41. Colin McRae Rally 2005
42. Myst Online: Uru Live
43. realMYST 3D
44. Bust a Move