OOTP to premiere on HBO in June

May 1st, 2008, 00:01 Posted By: wraggster

The HBO schedule for Order of the Phoenix is now online, and the fifth film in the Potter series is set to begin in high-definition on June 22nd at 9 PM EST. The Making Of special, which originally aired back in November, will start airing again on the June 19th.

http://www.mugglenet.com/app/news/show/1601

DFC: 360 Likely 'Biggest Loser' in Europe

May 1st, 2008, 00:04 Posted By: wraggster

David Cole with DFC Intelligence is betting that PlayStation-loving Europe will soon be switching its loyalty to Nintendo platforms, with the Xbox 360 being left in the wakes of both rivals.

What will Nintendo's success mean for the other platforms? It is important to note that DFC Intelligence is also forecasting strong sales for the PlayStation 3 and, to a lesser extent the Xbox 360. This generation is not expected to be a case of one platform dominating like the PS2 did in the last generation. One factor that will increasingly take hold in Europe is what DFC has labeled the "second car in the garage." In the U.S. over 40 percent of game households now buy two or more of the current console systems. By comparison, Europe has largely been a one car in the garage market. In recent years, that car has been the PlayStation 2. As the game market in Europe grows we expect to see more consumers buying two or more systems (although not to the extent of the U.S.) The Wii is forecasted to be the market leader, but with a market share less than 50 percent compared with the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Consumers will still need to play World of Warcraft, Grand Theft Auto IV, games on the go and so on. No one system satisfies all the diverse tastes in today's market.

It appears inevitable that, for the PlayStation 3, Sony will lose a big chunk of its PS2 user base. However, in the long-term, DFC Intelligence believes the PlayStation 3 will be a fairly strong competitor. The biggest loser in Europe is likely to be the Xbox 360. Microsoft has seen its self-proclaimed fall 2007 "greatest holiday lineup in videogame history" come and go with very little impact on the Xbox 360's position in the European marketplace. To spur sales in 2008, Microsoft is being forced to lower the price of a system that is starting to look like a senior citizen as it approaches its third birthday.

The Xbox systems have enjoyed much greater success in the U.K. than in continental Europe. In large part this is because the U.K. does not have a strong PC game market like those found in other parts of Europe. However, as in the U.S. and Australia where intense violence is more popular with gamers, U.K. gamers enjoy first-person shooter (FPS) titles and the Xbox 360 is clearly the leader in that category. Unfortunately, outside of the U.K., DFC sees the Xbox 360 continuing to struggle in Europe.

http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?op...235&It emid=2

Official Gamecube Controller

May 1st, 2008, 00:23 Posted By: wraggster

new from Divineo China



-Official Nintendo product.
-Built-in rumble.
-2 analog control sticks.
-Ergonomic design.
-The perfect link between player and game.
-Intuitive button layout.
-Cable length: 3m (about 10 ft.).
-Official Nintendo controller compatible with Nintendo Wii as well as Gamecube consoles.
-New color, matching the design of the Nintendo Wii.
-Works with all Wii/Gamecube consoles sold worldwide

Racing Booster for Wii

May 1st, 2008, 00:24 Posted By: wraggster

new from Divineo China



- 2 in 1 Booster for Wii
- Perfect for Mario Kart and other racing games
- Special interlocking system for 3-level steering movements
- Extra access for infrared sensor
- Includes Air Wheel with patented clip for Wiimote
- With suction cups to fasten the booster onto a smooth surface
* Wii remote is not included with the product

Weekly Toys Update: Women as idols, with school idols Kousaka Tamaki and Kusugawa Sar

May 1st, 2008, 00:29 Posted By: wraggster

Welcome to this week's toys update. Check out the wonderful collectibles we just got in stock and all the new products made available for preorder.

As toys, especially collectible ones, are produced in limited numbers and are often sold out prior to the actual release date, we strongly recommend to preorder the figures of your desire as early as possible.

A figure of Kousaka Tamaki from To Hearts is chosen as the bargain of the week and the cover girl of this news update. Tamaki is one of the most popular girls both within and outside the famous dating game. She is constantly seen as being surrounded by a group of followers from her school in the game and have a large fanbase in the gamers community.

Her confidence and maturity are one of the few reasons aside from beauty that contributes to her tremendous appeal, and her figure designer HIDE decides to focus on these aspects.

By sculpting her in an alluring pose he portrays her glamour, and by putting details into her eyes that seems to stare straight into your own, he brings out her confidence. To soften the whole package, the designer added layers of frills to her bikini to capture her innocent charm.

Tamaki, in her frilly bikini, is now sold at a bargain price of US$ 19.90 only and the maximum purchase is limited to 1 piece per customer. As usually, this weekly special is valid for exactly 1 week (if not sold out earlier).

Super deformed figures of characters from one of the hottest sci-fi movies came out. The Kubrick series consist of the major characters from Star Wars - The Phantom Menace. After watching their slick actions on screen, it's an enjoyable experience to play with them in the palm of your hand. May the force be with you!

As an aspiring idol, it is important for Amami Haruka to be able to move freely, naturally and gracefully. By having all the minute joints, a special feature of Frauline Revoltech figures, installed into her tiny body, she can bend and twist into the most photogenic of postures.

She comes with a set of accessories that goes with her gothic princess style: butterfly wings, bracelets, anklets, a cat's tail and a tiara. These accessories can be assembled with other characters in the series, so feel free to design the best outfit for your idols.

Quite a lot of interesting preorders are opened this week. One of the newer characters from the To Heart2 universe are joining in the league of collectible figures. Kusugawa Sarara is an eccentric girl hidden behind her French doll facade. Her maker Shiketa Udonko has brought her to life by crafting out her blank expression and the distant look in her eyes.

Naomi, drawn by the renowned figure designer Yamashita Shunya and crafted by Ogasawara Taketo, depicts a woman torn between the two Yakuza codes of conduct, giri and ninjo. While giri demands that she acts like one of the tough men in her gang, she is entitled to enjoy her priviledges as a woman under the ninjo code. By blending both masculine and feminine elements together, Naomi is definitely a collector's item.

The lists below show what has been released this week and what is available for preordering.

Toys & Figures (32)

Carnevale Della Luce Della Luna 1/7 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Anna JPN N/A
D.G.P. Yami no Kanata Non Scale Pre-Painted Gashapon toy JPN US$ 5.90
Death Note Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Nendoroid Light Yagami (Re-run) JPN N/A
Death Note Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Nendoroid Ryuk (Re-run) JPN N/A
Devil May Cry Darts (Dante) JPN US$ 29.90
Devil May Cry Darts (Nero) JPN US$ 29.90
Dragon Ball Z Neo A Hot Fight Tenkaichi-Budoukai Non Scale Pre-Painted Gashapon Toy JPN US$ 5.49
Dragon Destiny Ikkitousen 1/7 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Kanu (Black and White Version) JPN US$ 84.90
Dragon Destiny Ikkitousen 1/7 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Ryofu Housen (Sweet Lolita Version) Shinpo Limited JPN N/A
Dragon Destiny Ikkitousen 1/7 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Sonsaku Hakufu (China Dress Version) JPN US$ 99.90
Dragon Quest Non Scale Pre-Painted Soft Vinyl Figure: Monster Estark JPN US$ 19.90
Dragon Quest Non Scale Pre-Painted Soft Vinyl Figure: Monster Gigantess JPN US$ 16.90
Dragon Quest Non Scale Pre-Painted Soft Vinyl Figure: Monster Zooma JPN US$ 19.90
Dynamite Project 001 Dragon Destiny Ikkitousen 1/5 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Kanu Unchou (Special Colour Version) JPN US$ 114.90
Excellent Model Core Queens Blade EX 1/8 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Shizuka JPN N/A
Fortune Arterial 1/8 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Sendo Erika JPN N/A
Fraulein Revoltech Series No. 005 - Idol Master 1/10 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Amami Haruka JPN US$ 24.90
Ghost in the shell Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Tachikoma (Metal Version) JPN N/A
Ghost in the shell Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: TachiYellow (Metal Finish Version) JPN US$ 44.90
Idol Master Xenoglossia Scale 1/10 Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Amami Haruka JPN US$ 44.90
Nendoroid Death Note Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: L Lawliet (Re-run) JPN N/A
Nendoroid Petit Part 2 Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya Non Scale Pre-Painted PVC Trading Figure JPN N/A
Punit Collection Aria The Origination Non Scale Pre-Painted Figure: Aika JPN N/A
Punit Collection Aria The Origination Non Scale Pre-Painted Figure: Alicia JPN US$ 64.90
Series 8 - Stars Wars The Phantom Menace Kubrick JPN US$ 8.49
SIF EX Pretty Cats Show Time 1/6 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Lesson B JPN US$ 69.90
Soul of Chogokin Brave Raideen Non Scale Pre-Painted Figure: Raideen GX-41 JPN N/A
Soul of Chogokin Brave Raideen Non Scale Pre-Painted Figure: Raideen GX-41S DX Fade-In Set JPN N/A
Spice and Wolf 1/6 Scale Pre-Painted Figure: Holo JPN US$ 99.90
Super Mario Key Holder Vol.1 N/A
Tandem Twin Animal Girls 1/6 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Dog Alma JPN N/A
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu 1/8 Scale Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Nagato Yuki (Swimsuit Version) JPN N/A

http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...9-en-84-n.html

Weekly Games Update: The world is not a very safe place at all as seen in GTA IV

May 1st, 2008, 07:32 Posted By: wraggster

Welcome to this week's Games Update, our weekly summary featuring all new product arrivals from the last seven days.

Grand Theft Auto IV is released this week and steals the spotlight. Test out your own limits as well as that of your next generation consoles. Become Niko Bellic and roam the streets of Liberty city to search for the lost American dream through constant action and gun fights. Please check out this special news entry for a full reportage on the game and its shipping schedule.

Persona 3 FES proves that school is not very much safer than Liberty City. With monsters roaming about ready to prey on the unaware, it is up to the hero, his persona and the "special extracurricular activities club" members to prevent these monsters, called Shadows from overtaking the city.

The World Ends With You does not feature a sanctuary free of conflicts either. The weight of the world rests on the teenager Neku's shoulders. He has to solve riddles and beat the fatal game in seven days, or else the world will perish with him.

Explore the grand but dangerous fields of Final Fantasy XI: The Vana'diel Collection and assume a persona of your choice. This multi-platform online RPG constructs a mythical world with magical elements of its own. Learn the history of this parallel universe and join all the others who are absorbed in this massively scaled RPG.

After all the fun of challenging death, monsters and getting lost in the wild, try something less lethal but just as exciting. NBA Ballers: Chosen One is released for both Xbox360™ and PlayStation3™. Step into your pair of cyber basketball shoes and demonstrate your best skills in the most exotic of courts.

As usually, here's a summary of all new releases from this week,

Xbox360™:
Grand Theft Auto IV ASIA US$ 59.90
Grand Theft Auto IV US US$ 64.90
Grand Theft Auto IV (Special Edition) US US$ 129.90
NBA Ballers: Chosen One US US$ 64.90
Rock Band Wireless Guitar US US$ 79.90
Sega Superstars Tennis ASIA US$ 49.90
Viking: Battle for Asgard ASIA US$ 49.90

PlayStation3™:
Grand Theft Auto IV US US$ 64.90
Grand Theft Auto IV (Special Edition) US N/A
NBA Ballers: Chosen One US US$ 64.90
Sega Superstars Tennis ASIA US$ 49.90
Viking: Battle for Asgard ASIA US$ 49.90

Nintendo Wii™:
Battle of the Bands US US$ 59.90
Heavenly Guardian US US$ 24.90
Mario Kart Wii (w/ Wii Wheel) US US$ 59.90
Pro Yakyuu Family Stadium JPN US$ 54.90
Target: Terror US US$ 44.90
Wild Earth: African Safari US US$ 34.90

Nintendo Wii™ Accessories:
Vertical Illumination Stand US US$ 19.99
Wii Classic Controller with Glove (Special Edition / Black) US US$ 29.90
Wii Classic Controller with Glove (Special Edition / Blue) US US$ 29.90
Wii Classic Controller with Glove (Special Edition / Pink) US US$ 29.90
Wii Gamenizer with Remote (Special Edition) US US$ 59.90
Wii Nunchuk with Glove (Special Edition / Blue) US US$ 29.90
Wii Zapper with Link's Crossbow Training JPN US$ 39.90

PlayStation2™:
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 FES US US$ 34.90

Nintendo DS™:
Anpanman to Asobo: ABC Kyoushitsu JPN US$ 44.90
Emblem of Gundam JPN US$ 48.90
Katekyoo Hitman Reborn! Fate of Heat JPN US$ 48.90
Keikishi Gunzou Presents: Monoshiri Bakumatsu-Ou JPN US$ 39.90
The World Ends With You US US$ 44.90

Nintendo DS™ Accessories:
Peanuts DS Card Block JPN US$ 10.90
Peanuts Lite Slipon Socks Pouch - Blue JPN US$ 9.90
Peanuts Lite Slipon Socks Pouch - Pink JPN US$ 9.90
Peanuts Lite Slipon Socks Pouch - White JPN US$ 9.90
Peanuts Lite Slipon Socks Pouch - Yellow JPN US$ 9.90
Protector DS Lite (Nintendogs Version A) US US$ 9.99
Protector DS Lite (Nintendogs Version B) US US$ 9.99
Protector DS Lite (Super Mario Bros. Version) US US$ 9.99
Shiny Pouch DS Lite (Cassis) JPN US$ 22.90
Shiny Pouch DS Lite (Emerald) JPN US$ 22.90
Shiny Pouch DS Lite (Gold) JPN US$ 22.90
Shiny Pouch DS Lite (Pearl White) JPN US$ 22.90
Shiny Pouch DS Lite (Silver) JPN US$ 22.90
Touch Pen Max (Cassis) JPN US$ 3.90
Touch Pen Max (Emerald) JPN US$ 3.90
Touch Pen Max (Gold) JPN US$ 3.90
Touch Pen Max (Pearl White) JPN US$ 3.90
Touch Pen Max (Silver) JPN US$ 3.90

Sony PSP™:
AVP2 Aliens Vs. Predator JPN US$ 27.90
Chameleon US US$ 24.90
Nippon no Asoko de JPN US$ 39.90
Rockman Rockman (Chinese Version) ASIA US$ 14.90

Sony PSP™ Accessories:
PSP 2GB Memory Stick US US$ 39.99

PC Games:
Europa Universalis Rome ASIA US$ 37.90
Final Fantasy XI: The Vana'diel Collection 2008 (DVD-ROM) US US$ 34.90
Off Road ASIA US$ 34.90

Guide Books:
Arcadia Magazine [June 2008] JPN US$ 12.90
Armored Core: For Answer Official Perfect Guide JPN US$ 26.90
Famitsu Wave DVD [June 2008] JPN US$ 16.50
Grand Theft Auto IV Signature Series Guide US US$ 19.90
Iron Man Official Strategy Guide US US$ 16.90
Lux-Pain Official Guide Book JPN US$ 27.90
Mario Kart Wii Prima Office Game Guide US US$ 19.90
Petit Four Official Visual Fan Book JPN US$ 38.90
Pokemon Pocket Pokedex Vol.2: Prima Official Game Guide US US$ 13.90
Riba Hara Art Collection JPN US$ 29.90
Silver Rain Guide Book JPN US$ 14.90
The World Ends With You Official Strategy Guide US US$ 16.90
Vantage Master Portable Capture And Visual Book JPN US$ 27.90

Video Game Soundtracks:
Star Ocean: Second Evolution Original Soundtrack JPN US$ 28.90

http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-...9-en-84-n.html

[Release] Plug-in: "Fused"

May 1st, 2008, 11:58 Posted By: gamefreak199101

Ever wanted to be able to play your PSP games on your television, but couldn't because you don't own an HD TV?? Well now you can, thanks to this nifty application, made by OldPrisoneR. (must own a Slim and Lite PSP)

What does this program do?
Its a plug-in that makes it possible to play with your PSP Slim and Lite by posting the image on a TV via the composite cable (not HD TV). Attention, the plug-in is under development and the version presented here is a beta.

With which firmwares is it compatible?
It was tested by the author on custom Firmware 3.80 m33-5 but it functions with Custom Firmwares higher. We tested it successfully on Custom firmware 3.93.

Bugs Known: Known Bugs:
*Warriors Orochi: it is necessary to activate the plug-in after having passed the loading screen if not then it will freeze the game.

*Silent Hill Origins: "specks" appear sometimes.

*Killzone: Makes noises on the images.

In all the cases, the author recommends to activate the plug-in only after finishing the loading of the game and after skipping the intro videos of the game. If there are problems with certain images, try pressing the "Home" button several times.

How to install this?
*Download “FUSED” for PSP

*Connect your PSP to your computer via USB

*Put your PSP in “USB Mode”

*Extract the files

*Choose your PSP drive

*Copy the "seplugins" folder to your memory stick's root

*Open the file GAME.txt and add the following line:

ms0:/seplugins/FuSa.prx

*Go into recovery and enable the plugin

How to activate it?
Once you have your game started, press the volume buttons "+" and "-" and hold for a small moment. This activates the menu:

*Composite cable inserted: Indicates if a cable is connected

*Disable Plug-in: Disables the plug-in

*Switch to TV: switch between TV and LCD (you can also press the SCREEN button to switch to LCD)

*Speed Booster []: Enables SPEED BOOSTER feature (see more info below)

*Grab VRAM to VRAM.bin: recover the contents of the VRAM to write it in a VRAM.bin file (which can be explored with the suitable tool) - a function for the devs.

*EXIT MENU: Exit the menu (you can also press circle to exit immediately)

COMPATIBLE GAMES:
Commercial Games:

Twisted Metal
Echochrome
DownStream Panic
FlatOut
God of War: Chains of Olympus
Silent Hill: Origins

Homebrew:

NesterJ
DGEN (You must turn vsync off in it's settings)

FuSa has a feature called "SPEED BOOSTER", which makes games to work by speeding them up.You can enable it in MENU, but you will not be able to disable it.

This mode makes it possible to play the following games:

Patapon
Pursuit Force
Daxter
Off Road

Game(s) that do not work with "SPEED BOOSTER":

Warriors Orochi

CubicMan 0.0.2 is out!

May 1st, 2008, 13:14 Posted By: dr_watson

Passionfools Design has just released CubicMan 0.0.2.

New in this version:

- Progress saving and loading.
- All new UI and texture.
- 15 new levels + enhancement of those old 8 levels (effectively 23 new levels).
- Music and sound effects.
- New triggers: bridges, thin tile and teleporter.
- New control mode using Accelerometer.

With accelerometer mode, you can roll the cube by tilting. If you set "Quick Move" on, the cube will keep rolling as long as the device is tilted (be careful, don't roll over the edge^^). When the "Quick Move" is off, the cube will roll just once with each tilting.

Also, unlike in "swipe" mode that the screen orientation is adjusted automatically, you have to select to play in either "Portrait" or "Landscape" when using the accelerometer mode.

CubicMan is available on Installer thru modmyifone's repository: at http://modmyifone.com/installer.xml

PSP-Maps 1.1

May 1st, 2008, 13:32 Posted By: royale

This version adds an experimental and basic KML files support.
It allows you to add some additional informations on the maps, such as directions and points of interest.



There are some indications in the README file.

You can download this new version on my website: http://royale.zerezo.com/psp/
Or in attachment to this thread.

Paula Plugin 1.0.0.0 released

May 1st, 2008, 16:05 Posted By: JKKDARK

New version of the audio plugin for iDeaS, the Nintendo DS emulator for PC.

Changelog:

- Add support for Panning Volume.
- Add support for single channel volume.
- Add support for LoopStart Register.
- Fixed a bug in Resampling routines.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door for $11.99 on Amazon

May 1st, 2008, 16:07 Posted By: JKKDARK

via Wiifanboy

If, for some reason or another, you missed out on Super Paper Mario's GameCube predecessor, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, here's your chance to pick up the title that won the "Console Role Playing Game of the Year" award at the 2005 Interactive Achievement Awards, without having to feel guilty about spending too much money on an RPG released all the way back in 2005.

Amazon has slashed a sizable chunk from The Thousand-Year Door's usual $19.99 pricing, and for the duration of the day (or while stocks last) you can buy the game for only $11.99. You can stash the money you'll save in a fund for eventually buying a copy of Super Mario RPG!

PSPSSH : SSH2 Client for PSP v1.1.1 (IR 3.80 & 3.90)

May 1st, 2008, 16:13 Posted By: zx-81



Hi All,

For those who haven't seen the previous version, Dropbear is a small SSH2 Server
and Client running on a variety of POSIX-based platforms.
It has been mainly developed by Matt Johnston
(see http://matt.ucc.asn.au/dropbear/dropbear.html )

PSPSSH is a port of the version 0.48.1 to the PSP.

This ssh client gives you a remote access to your PC (if you have a SSH server installed
of course), and you can then enter commands and run scripts as if you were directly
in front of your PC.

This software is usefull for linux users who might want to connect to their PC/server from
anywhere using a wifi connection, and then read their mail using text based tool
such as pine, elm or mutt, run text irc client, watch log files, edit configuration files,
restart services etc ...

* Change log : *

What's new in version 1.1.0 & 1.1.1 :

- Fix IR keyboard issue with fw >= 3.80 for FAT PSP
(thanks to Angelo)
- It has been tested sucessufully tested on:
. SLIM 3.90-m33 (thanks to Greg from psp-hacks)
. FAT 3.90-m33
. FAT 1.5 (addon for 3.90-m33)
- Increaze heap memory for fw3.x
- Code cleaning


* Credits and license : *

The terminal Vt100 emulation part of PSPSSH is based on the work of Danzel for his Telnet client for PSP.

The IR keyboard support is based on the work of Harald Fielker (author of the PSP IR Keyboard Library)

This software is distributed under several open-source/free software licenses, and mainly
the MIT/X Consortium License.

See LICENSE.txt file for all details and information about it.

It has been developed on linux for Firmware 1.5 and 3.80-m33 and 3.90-m33
on both FAT and SLIM PSP.

For the IR keyboard part it has been tested using a Targus Universal IR Wireless keyboard.

How to use it ? Everything is in the README.txt file.

* Download : *

http://zx81.zx81.free.fr/

Thanks to Matt Johnston for Dropbear, to Danzel and Jeff Chen for their virtual keyboard,
thanks once more to Danzel for the VT100 emulation, and thanks to all PSPSDK coders.

Enjoy,

Zx

Download And Give Feedback via Comments

Nintendo Wii getting PlayStation 3 port from SEGA

May 1st, 2008, 17:48 Posted By: JKKDARK

via Nintendic

Publisher SEGA and developer Chunsoft are teaming up to bring the first, but surely not the last, ever port of a game from the PlayStation 3 console to Nintendo’s far-weaker Wii system. The game? A reworking of Imabikisou from last year, which shocked many by charting quite high in the Media Create Top 10 upon launch, but plummeted out of sight very quickly indeed soon afterwards.

Imabikisou is a game made up of mainly static photographs, as well as a certain amount of live-action video clips that help to move the story along. For the Wii version, the game is being slightly renamed to include a new sub-title, with the full name now being “Imabikisou - Solution Compilation”. The chilling horror story caused quite a stir on PlayStation 3 in Japan at a time when games on the system just were not selling anywhere near as well as expected, with even big hitters such as Virtua Fighter 5 failing to make a massive impact. However, being part of the ’sound novel’ genre, which is more than slightly niche, to say the least, interest in the game was always going to be limited, and given how no such games make it over to the West, SEGA has yet to translate the title for North America or any of the PAL territories.
Now, though, Chunsoft is giving the game another shot, again with a helping hand from SEGA, the company that published Chunsoft’s Mysterious Dungeon: Shiren The Wanderer on the Nintendo DS. Exclusive to the Wii version is a brand new episode, as well as a revised control system to make use of the Wii Remote, plus the game will now make use of the Wii Remote’s in-built speaker to add to the atmosphere. A video of the PlayStation 3 version can be seen above, whilst the speaker usage can be sampled by heading over to the game’s official website.

New Screens from Spatterhouse

May 1st, 2008, 17:58 Posted By: rmedtx

Guys,

Here are some new cool screens from Splatterhouse:

http://games.tiscali.cz/clanek/screen.asp?id=12793

Enjoy.

PSPIRC: IRC Client for PSP v1.1.5 (IR 3.80 & 3.90)

May 1st, 2008, 18:25 Posted By: zx-81



Hi All,

PSPIRC is a basic IRC client for the PSP.

* What's new in this version ? *

- Fix IR keyboard issue with fw >= 3.80 for FAT PSP
(thanks to Angelo)
- It has been tested sucessufully tested on:
. SLIM 3.90-m33 (thanks to Greg from psp-hacks)
. FAT 3.90-m33
. FAT 1.5 (addon for 3.90-m33)
- Fix issue with virtual keyboard (speed)

* Credits and license : *

It is mainly based on the IRC engine written by Danzel, and
the user interface i wrote for PSPSSH.

The IR keyboard support is based on the work of Harald Fielker.

Thanks to Snaap06 and KookBott for their work on previous
eboot icons and graphics.

If you like Hookbott graphics you can still download them here :
http://zx81.zx81.free.fr/public/psp/...spirc-skin.zip

Big thanks to Delight1 for her graphics, help, support, ideas, comments,
beta testing, and for her good mood and kindness.

This software is distributed under GNU V2 License, see GPLV2.txt file
for all details and information about it.

It has been developed on linux for Firmware 1.5 and 3.90-m33 (FAT & SLIM),
and for the IR keyboard part it has been tested using a
Targus Universal IR Wireless keyboard.

How to use it ? Everything is in the README.txt file.

* Download : *

http://zx81.zx81.free.fr/

Enjoy,

Zx

Download and Give Feedback Via Comments

GTA IV: Most expensive game ever developed?

May 1st, 2008, 19:34 Posted By: Shrygue

via Games Industry


GTA IV producer Leslie Benzies has estimated that the game cost Rockstar approximately USD 100 million to create.

In an interview with the Times Online, Benzies also said that more than 1000 people worked on the title for a period of over a three and a half years.

If the figure is correct, GTA IV's development costs would make it the most expensive game ever made - topping the USD 70 million+ development budget for Sega's Shenmue for the Dreamcast.

GTA IV, however, has already sold over 600,000 copies on the first day in the UK alone and analysts have predicted that the game could gross more than USD 400 million in its first week.

Benzies also noted that much of the beating Rockstar has taken over the past three years - by the government and the press - comes from people who haven't played the game.

Why do people object to a game they haven't even played?

"You kill prostitutes," he told the Times Online. "That's usually the objection."

"There is a big fear factor here. It's the coming of the railways. It's Elvis shaking his hips. It's cars going over 25 miles an hour and making people explode."

Sony PlayTV delayed?

May 1st, 2008, 19:37 Posted By: Shrygue

via Engadget


Sony in Australia has told Gizmodo that PlayTV - the PS3's USB TV tuner and video-recording add-on - will launch there in Q4 2008.

The device's launch will probably be bit more complicated than a standard game launch, but you would still expect relative parity among PAL regions, and this has prompted speculation in some quarters that we'll be waiting a while for PlayTV too. Here, for example.

This wasn't helped recently by Sony's refusal to clarify reports of a 31st July date and the absence so far of a more detailed estimate than sometime in 2008.

When we spoke to SCEE this week, a spokesperson offered some hope: "We have not yet announced a release date or pricing for PlayTV in the UK, but will have more information shortly," we were told.

That could mean we will see an announcement during next week's PlayStation Day event in London, when SCE president Kaz Hirai and European boss David Reeves will deliver a press conference expected to detail plans for the rest of 2008.

PlayTV, announced last year, allows PS3 owners to record TV programmes on the PS3 hard disk and watch another TV channel at the same time.

Pricing has yet to be announced for the add-on - a USB block in the shape of a sunglasses case - but the most important detail for prospective buyers is whether or not you can record TV while you play games, and Sony is currently trying to achieve this without impacting gameplay.

Check out our PlayTV preview for more on that issue - including comments from Sony's Cambridge studio developers - as well as details on how it's implemented.

GTA on XBLA soon?

May 1st, 2008, 19:39 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


A mysterious timer clock has appeared on the official site for Grand Theft Auto 2. Yes, that's right; the ten-year-old game.

The clock on the official site seems to be counting neither up or down (the minutes don't change) but the date 'May 22' is clearly displayed underneath.

Could the long-rumoured Xbox Live Arcade and PSN versions of Grand Theft Auto 1 & 2 be just around the corner then? We can't think of anything else it could be relating to - the game's quite old, after all.

Rockstar's UK office was unfortunately unavailable to comment when we picked up the phone (they're probably playing Cops 'n Crooks), but we'll let you know when the time ticks away.

Echochrome hits US today

May 1st, 2008, 19:43 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Fancy a headache? Course you do. Sony's mind-melting puzzler, Echochrome, is out on the US PSN today for your self-harming pleasure.

In case you've not been following it, Echochrome is an innovative little title which sees you rotating simple 3D environments to create paths for a little walking make to traverse.

It uses a clever optical illusion mechanic, where obstacles like holes or gaps in the path disappear when you can't see them. It hurts just trying to explain it... just download the currently-available demo.

Unfortunately for UK gamers, that might not be for another week or so, as Sony UK is yet to announce a UK date for the quirky little title.

There are two versions being release, one for PS3 on the PS Store, and one for PSP on the PC Store for PSP - each version with its own 56 levels and both costing $9.99.

Age of Conan pricing confirmed

May 1st, 2008, 19:52 Posted By: Shrygue

via Eurogamer


Funcom has laid out the full subscription pricing structure for its imminent fantasy MMO, Age of Conan.

In the UK the game will cost GBP 8.99 per month to play, the same as most competitors - except hold on, that doesn't include VAT. In fact, an Age of Conan subscription will set you back GBP 10.34 a month.

It comes in a little cheaper if you commit to three months or six - GBP 28.95 and GBP 53.06 respectively, including tax.

The situation is reflected in Europe, where thanks to the strong Euro, the game is really quite expensive to play. A EUR 12.99 monthly base rate becomes EUR 14.94 with tax. The three and six month subs cost EUR 41.37 and EUR 75.83.

Americans get off lightest: they pay USD 14.99 for one month, USD 41.97 for three, and USD 77.94 for six.

Alternatively, you can buy 60-day timecards from shops. These have a recommended retail price of 29.99, in both US dollars and euros.

The cost of playing Age of Conan is not just monetary, however. We've just received our beta copy of the game - open beta starts today - and can confirm that the install comes in at a whopping 32GB.

Best start clearing hard drive space and updating your graphics card drivers now. This one's a monster.

Age of Conan launches on 20th May - 23rd May in Europe - which is excitingly soon. Check out the gamepage for words and media, and look for more from Eurogamer MMO as launch approaches.

New skiing game for Wii balance board

May 1st, 2008, 19:54 Posted By: Shrygue

Nintendo has dated the Namco Bandai balance board game for Wii called Family Ski.

It's due out here on 13th June, although there is no word on what it will cost or what the deal will be if you don't already own a balance board. At present the board is only available with Wii Fit for GBP 69.99.

Family Ski takes advantage of Nintendo's three-pronged-entertainment-fork - the Wiimote, nunchuk and Wii Board - to deliver what it calls "a thrilling true-life ski experience".

This has you crouching and leaning to turn while pushing-off and accelerating using the motion-sensing hand controls.

There's a Ski School to help you get to grips with it all, and you will soon find yourself progressing from Rabbit Road up to courses like the terrifying Lion Peak. There are competitions to enter when you get really good.

You also get the option of using a pre-set skier or importing your Mii and dressing it up in ski wear.

Then, once you get bored of sliding around, you can do some common piste activities like finding lost children and delivering food to people, like some kind of two-legged St. Bernard. Smashing idea. There's a Ski Quiz, too.

You can take photos of yourself on the slopes and then post the pictures on the Wii Message Board, too.

32 new Street Fighter IV screens

May 1st, 2008, 19:56 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Capcom has released some of the nice screenshots of Street Fighter IV, which we think look great. Don't take our word for it though: have a look yourself.

We recognise they're not perfect - in particular Ryu's feet appear to belong to the Incredible Hulk and Chun Li still looks like a bloke - but the sheer style of them has us sold.

The backgrounds also look good and the lighting is quite impressive. In one shot, a setting sun in one shot casts rays over Ryu and Sagat.

If you haven't already seen them, we'd recommend checking out the videos on our Street Fighter IV game page. We want a release date now please, Capcom.


Screenshots

Rubik's World coming to Wii and DS

May 1st, 2008, 20:02 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Casual games developer The Game Factory has revealed that it will be publishing a game based on the Rubik's Cube later on this year.

Rubik's World is being developed by Dutch developer Two Tribes (Worms Open Warfare 2) for both DS and Wii. According to the publisher, it's for anyone who's ever wondered what the inside of a Rubik's Cube looks like.

We have, but we always thought it was a few bits of plastic. Apparently not. Using TARDIS-like technology, the cubes contain entire 3D worlds, each made up of unique and original puzzles. Who would have thought it?

Players will be able to construct 3D shapes and objects, navigate through mazes and even create their own soundtracks.

The DS version will be supported with an online community that players can wirelessly connect to, and the Wii version can support up to four people and will feature an online message board. Presumably because casual gamers have never heard of GamesFAQs.

Expect Rubik's World sometime this autumn.

Majesco shows off new DS puzzler

May 1st, 2008, 20:04 Posted By: Shrygue

via Eurogamer


Majesco has unveiled a new puzzle game for DS called Rollin' Rascals.

It involves rolling cute animals, including pandas and puppies and pigs, into each other so you can clear each stage. The ultimate aim is to find all the animals of the Kolo Kingdom.

Attack, Challenge and Battle modes should spice things up, or you can use your saved in-game money to buy a house and furniture for your animals. Because that is what they would want. Yes they can talk; they sit on the top screen while you're concentrating and do just that.

There is head-to-head support for you and your friends, too, if you're up to it.

Rollin' Rascals is due out in the US in July, but if you just can't wait that long, we would strongly suggest picking up the excellent and entirely dissimilar Zoo Keeper.

Analyst: 360 to be Europe's biggest loser

May 1st, 2008, 20:12 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Video game industry researcher DFC Intelligence has claimed that the Xbox 360 is "starting to look like a senior citizen" and is likely to be the biggest loser in Europe.

In a Next-Gen article, the research company has said the Microsoft's 2007 Christmas line-up has had little impact on the company's position in the marketplace and predicts that PS3 will secure second place this generation.

The research company also had some words to say about Nintendo. "The Wii product line and control system are an evolution of what made the PlayStation 2 so successful in Europe," it says, claiming that Sony's success last generation was due in part to the mass-market appeal of SingStar and EyeToy.

"A key driver behind these products was Phil Harrison, the U.K.-based president of SCE Worldwide Studios. However at the end of February 2008, Harrison left Sony. In many ways this departure is symbolic of how the torch in Europe seems to be passing to Nintendo."

LotRO's update hits Europe

May 1st, 2008, 20:14 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Turbine's Book 13 content update for Lord of the Rings Online has finally touched down in Europe, while Gandalf wannabes over in North America have been nerding their way through it for nearly a week already.

Book 13: Doom of the Last-King introduces a brand new region, a new faction, a new class for LotRO's PvP solution Monster Play, a new hobby system, loads of new quests and the continuation of the epic storyline that threads through the title.

Turbine's working its arse off to get these updates out and the next one, Book 14, is due this summer. The first full expansion for LotRO, Mines of Moria, should be with us in the autumn.

Keep eyes peeled for an interview with Turbine on Mines of Moria gracing these pages in the not-too-distant future.


Screenshots

Nintendo Looking into Flash Memory Solution

May 1st, 2008, 20:24 Posted By: Shrygue

via IGN


Nintendo's recent earnings report was full of great news for investors as the company's fortunes soared to record highs. But what does it all mean for gamers?

Company president Satoru Iwata provide some hints in a Q&A session following the company's press briefing last week. Today, Nintendo provided an English transcript of that session.

Iwata spoke at length on a number of issues, but one in particular caught our eye: the hot topic of the Wii's limited flash memory. Said Iwata, "Statistically speaking, it is true that there are a small number of customers who feel that the flash memory is too small, while many others find that they have plenty of memory. However, because this small number of people are none other than the most avid players, we know we have to review the best possible solution to eliminate their inconvenience."

So keep on complaining, Nintendo fanatics, and you may one day have full access to your virtual Wii games collection without having to delete stuff.

Iwata also gave some vague indication of the current performance of the WiiWare and Virtual Console download services. Total sales for the fiscal year for the two services combined came to 7.8 billion yen.

There's actually a fundamental difference between the WiiWare and Virtual Console businesses, Iwata explained. For the Virtual Console, Nintendo manages the full process of preparing software, even from 3rd parties. As it faces the business risks from distributing games on the service, it also takes a larger share of the profits. For WiiWare, 3rd parties face all the business risks themselves and handle marketing, and thus they get a larger portion of the profits.

For more of Iwata's comments, be sure and check out Nintendo's English transcript of the Iwata Q&A session for yourself.

Tecmo Bowl Returns

May 1st, 2008, 20:25 Posted By: Shrygue

via IGN


Just before last year's Tokyo Game Show, Tecmo held an event showing off its current and future wares, and made the announcement that its classic Tecmo Bowl football series would be returning -- but didn't hint at which system or systems would be getting the revival. Today, Tecmo has announced that the game, titled Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff, will be coming to the Nintendo DS this fall.

Details are slim at this point, and all we have for media is a game logo. But what we do know is that Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff will feature arcade-style over-the-top football gameplay with a ton of features. Players will be able to customize teams with their own team colors, emblems, player names, host city and adjust their player abilities. The game will feature stylus control for the action as well as the customizable playbook.

Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff will also support both local wireless and internet play over the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection.

We'll have more on Tecmo Bowl: Kickoff in the coming weeks.

Konami Bringing Lost in Blue to Wii

May 1st, 2008, 20:29 Posted By: Shrygue

via IGN


Konami Japan opened up a website today for Survival Kids Wii, confirming that the portable adventure series is on the way to the home console.

Known in the West as Lost in Blue, this particular franchise puts players through a survival test on a deserted island. The series has been a portable thing until now, having appeared on the DS and original Game Boy Color.

The Wii version, to be titled Survival Kids Wii in Japan, is listed at the Konami website as a "survival simulation" game for up to two players. That's all the information we have at this point, unfortunately.

The game is listed at the Konami page without a release date. A release outside of Japan has also not been announced officially, but with the three DS games already out here, an international release looks likely.

BAE Systems working on spider-bots, other ways to scare you to death

May 1st, 2008, 20:34 Posted By: Shrygue

via Engadget


Do you enjoy gangs of tiny, spider-like robot insectoids swarming all over your house, car, or personage? If you answered "yes," you're going to love what BAE Systems is cooking up.

The company recently received an infusion of $38 million from the US Army Research Lab to fund the Micro Autonomous Systems and Technology (MAST) consortium; a team of scientists and researchers hell-bent on developing an "autonomous, multifunctional collection of miniature intelligence-gathering robots that can operate in places too inaccessible or dangerous for humans."

Sure, that description (and accompanying photos, straight from BAE) does give you the impression that whoever came up with this really liked Minority Report, but won't it make you feel safer at night knowing a swarm of metallic spiders are looking out for you? No? Huh, weird.

Dragon Power Station Harnesses Kinetic Energy From to Power Stuff

May 1st, 2008, 20:38 Posted By: Shrygue

via Gizmodo


Terry Kenney's Dragon Power Station prototype works by harnessing the kinetic energy of trucks passing over plates buried in the road and turning that energy into electricity. The system he's got set up now in the Port of Oakland, with 2,500 trucks passing over it in a day, is enough to power 1,750 homes. It's a very interesting concept that can be extended to busier streets, harnessing a little bit of the energy that would otherwise be lost.

It's not all free energy, however, as these trucks slow down ever-so-slightly as they depress the plates in the road. TreeHugger supposes that this would be even better for the times when you actually do want to slow down, like going down a hill, where they could load up on these plates and slow down cars enough to not have to ride the brakes the whole way. Sounds good to us.

Google Maps Goes Gangsta - GTA IV Maps Ahoy

May 1st, 2008, 20:42 Posted By: Shrygue

via Gizmodo




Even Google Maps is getting in on GTA IV fever, making an online version of the map that came with the game. In a way, it's much better than the paper map because you can click on and off different points of interests (missions, restaurants, safe houses, gun shops) and know where you're going. What with Google mapping out the ocean, an imaginary world isn't that much of a stretch. Are we the only ones here that wishes they were playing GTA IV instead of working?


See the Liberty City Grand Theft Auto map from IGN here

Ports of Call DS WIP

May 1st, 2008, 20:49 Posted By: wraggster

Ashai Rey has posted some details of his upcoming game for the DS:


This is my latest project that i am working on. The game is already playable but not yet ready fo beta release. Btw, this is not a port but a complete remake.

(Remark: if you know this games then you are probaly 30+ :-) )

http://zoelen.net/

First Mario Kart Wii competition goes live

May 1st, 2008, 20:50 Posted By: Shrygue

via Computer and Video Games


Nintendo has started the first Mario Kart Wii competition, which you can start playing right this second.

To enter, simply go to the Mario Kart channel and scroll down to the Competitions option. Providing you've downloaded the latest data (the bottom option), you'll get the following message, "Get the best time you can in a VS on Mario Circuit."

That means computer characters are on the course and normal items are in use. The course has been changed slightly, with items placed differently and the chain chomp is prowling around, freely.

We're not entirely convinced about the challenge, given the randomness eleven computer characters bring to the course. Never-the-less, we'll be competing. The competition will run until May 10. Go!

Rodland remake

May 1st, 2008, 20:50 Posted By: wraggster

GouldFish has posted details of a game he/she is working on:

I'm currently working on a Rodland remake for the DS, and I'm hoping to keep all the current progress in this thread.


Current version V0.1

Implemented:
Correct player 1 sprite
Collision engine that can be updated at run time.
Player can place a ladder.
Flowers are placed from the colision map and can be picked up by player for points.
pre set ladders work.
Custom font that includes player life counter.

Square Enix dates FFXI 2008 bundle

May 1st, 2008, 20:52 Posted By: Shrygue

via Eurogamer


Square Enix plans to release the 2008 Edition of Final Fantasy XI on 23rd May.

Inside are all four PC and 360 expansions released for the MMO so far. That means Rise of the Zilart (2004), Chains of Promathia (2004), Treasures of Aht Urghan (2006) and Wings of the Goddess (2007).

Much has changed since the game arrived in Europe on PC in 2004 and on Xbox 360 in 2006. Zilart added the Dragoon, Samurai and Ninja jobs; Promathia expanded the land with 40 fresh areas; Aht Urghan added Puppetmaster, Corsair and Blue Mage jobs, and Wings added large-scale Campaign battles, Dancer and Scholar jobs, plus various spells and job abilities.

Various areas, quests, monsters and all sorts were included in the expansions, too.

Final Fantasy XI is the only game where Xbox 360, PC and PS2 owners can play together online. It boasts a current community of 500,000 people and has ridable chickens.

Mario Kart retains Japanese chart number 1 [5-1-2008]

May 1st, 2008, 20:55 Posted By: Shrygue

via Games Industry


Mario Kart Wii sold another 150,000 units in Japan across the sales week ending April 27, according to the latest data from Media Create, and is on track to break the 1 million mark this week.

That was also enough to keep it top of the software chart, with Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G in second place as Capcom's PlayStation Portable game nears the 2 million boundary.

New entries accounted for the rest of the top five places, with Valkyria Chronicles for the PlayStation 3 in third, Taiko Drum Master DS: Seven Island Adventure in fourth and Summon Night in fifth.

Wii Fit sold another 37,000 copies to take sixth place, and is on track to pass the 2 million mark in the next few weeks, while We're Fossil Diggers took seventh place.

Pokemon Ranger: Batonnage, DS Beautiful Letter Training and Musou Orochi: The Evil King Returns completed the top ten list.

Two Xbox 360 title made their debut in the top 30, with Rainbow Six Vegas 2 taking 11th place and Frontlines: Fuel of War in 26th. Phoenix Wright 4 for the Nintendo DS debuted at a lowly 27th.


The full top ten is as follows:

1. Mario Kart Wii (Wii)
2. Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G (PS)
3. Valkyria Chronicles (PS3)
4. Taiko Drum Master DS: Seven Island Adventure (DS)
5. Summon Night (DS)
6. Wii Fit (Wii)
7. We're Fossil Diggers (DS)
8. Pokemon Ranger: Batonnage (DS)
9. DS Beautiful Letter Training (DS)
10. Musou Orochi: The Evil King Returns (PS2)

Has Sony advertising boosted Blu-ray purchases?

May 1st, 2008, 20:57 Posted By: Shrygue

via Games Industry


Owners of PlayStation 3 consoles in the US are using their consoles to play Blu-ray disc movies in increasing numbers according to research done by Warner Home Video.

During the final quarter of 2007, PS3 households spent 15 per cent of their PS3 time watching Blu-ray movies. In January and February, the proportion increased to 23 per cent.

The research, revealed at the PEVE Digital Entertainment conference in Paris as reported by Screen Digest, also indicated that the proportion of US PS3 household using the console as a Blu-ray movie player had risen from 53 per cent in September 2007 to 80 per cent in the first two months of 2008.

Warner Home Video president Ron Sanders said that, following a Sony TV ad campaign encouraging the use of PS3 consoles to watch movies, the proportion of PS3 households purchasing Blu-ray discs rose from less than 10 per cent in October 2007 to over 15 per cent in December - suggesting that Sony's advertising had an impact.

Screen Digest senior analyst Helen Davis Jayalath, however, notes that the timing of Warner's research makes it impossible to quantify how much of an effect the Christmas gift-giving season would have had on Blu-ray spending without Sony's promotions.

"Furthermore, the relative lack of strong games titles for the PS3 over this period is also likely to have contributed to the console's use as a BD player," she wrote.

Nonetheless, Jayalath noted that the size of the PS3 installed base means that even a minimal increase in average per household Blu-ray disc purchase rates could substantially impact total hi-def media sales.

Guitar Hero DS tracks revealed

May 1st, 2008, 20:59 Posted By: Shrygue

via Eurogamer


Activision has listed 15 of the 25 tracks that will feature in Guitar Hero: On Tour for DS.

Speaking to US magazine Nintendo Power, the publisher confirmed that relatively contemporary hits from both Maroon 5 and Blink 182 will be included alongside songs from Twisted Sister, KISS, and Jet from Gladiators.

Guitar Hero: On Tour works by clipping a "Guitar Grip" into the GBA slot on your DS so the four coloured fret buttons rest on the bottom of your handheld.

You then turn the DS sideways like a book and use a provided plastic pick to strum the touch-screen guitar and rock your socks off.

There will be the usual career mode with six characters to choose from, as well as wireless competitive and co-o