Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts (X360)
Break out your magic wrench and start sketching those blueprints. More than 10 years after the launch of "Banjo-Kazooie," Microsoft Game Studios and Rare Ltd. are proud to renew the beloved franchise with "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts." Landing at North American retailers today, this Xbox 360 exclusive is rated "E 10+" (for Everyone 10 and older) and retails for $39.99. Starring a honey bear, Banjo, and his wise-cracking breegull companion, Kazooie, "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts" encourages players to use their imaginations as they embark on an adventure to claim ownership of Spiral Mountain.
In their third adventure, Banjo and Kazooie face off against their evil witch rival Gruntilda, with nothing less than the deed to Spiral Mountain on the line. The mysterious Lord of Games (or L.O.G.), creator of all video games, has decided to step in to settle the feud between them once and for all. The winner of L.O.G's challenges will be deemed the sole possessor of Spiral Mountain and it's up to players to ensure Banjo and Kazooie's success.
Players navigate six different worlds created by L.O.G., each with their own unique set of challenges. Players create their own abilities by building vehicles for Banjo to pilot over land, sea and air. Although L.O.G's challenges have one end goal, each player can develop their own unique solution by either building a vehicle from a myriad of parts they've collected, or by expanding on a pre-made vehicle.
For those who enjoy a little competition, "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts" comes equipped with a gripping multiplayer mode for the first time in the franchises' history. Using Xbox LIVE, up to eight players can engage in various multiplayer competitions including Sumo, Soccer and Queen of the Knoll, where they can test out and show off their creations and driving skills. Players can also share their designs with the world by uploading their blueprints to the Banjo-Kazooie community Web site.
As a special treat, on November 23, players will get the opportunity to go head-to-head against the developers of "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts" at Rare. A dozen artists and designers will join in the multiplayer competitions from 3-5 p.m. EST on Xbox LIVE, including Gregg Mayles, Rare's head of design, and Salvatore Fileccia, Rare's lead software engineer. All members of the "Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts" development team will be distinguishable by their unique Banjo characters, which will be sporting a stylish pair of sunglasses, and those who get the chance to battle against Rare team members will unlock a special Achievement.
Call of Duty: World at War (NDS/Wii/PS3/X360/PC)
Check your gear and get ready to move out to your nearest retailer on Veterans Day, as Call of Duty: World at War takes players to a grittier WWII than ever before - from facing down Imperial Japanese Banzai charges and guerilla tactics in the Pacific - to exacting ruthless revenge as you beat back the enemy all the way to the steps of Berlin one bloody inch at a time. In addition to introducing franchise-first four-person cooperative gameplay, Call of Duty: World at War at War serves up a host of new enemies/tactics and a cache of weapons, like the flamethrower. The highly-anticipated title also delivers deep multiplayer action that features squad and vehicular combat, as well as a lush audio landscape set in 5.1 surround sound, accompanying cinematically-intense, high-definition graphics.
"Our goal from Day 1 has been to make sure that Call of Duty: World at War re-defines players' expectations of World War II first-person action," said Treyarch studio head Mark Lamia. "From cooperative gameplay to a multiplayer that combines vehicle and squad combat, along with a host of new weapons, settings and enemies, we've left no stone unturned to make this the best experience possible."
For the first time in the franchise, Call of Duty: World at War introduces co-op, bringing fresh meaning to the "No One Fights Alone" mantra. Call of Duty: World at War co-op features up to four-players online, or two-player local split-screen, allowing gamers to experience harrowing single-player missions together for greater camaraderie and tactical execution. The title also incorporates traditional multiplayer components such as challenges, rankings and online stats into the co-op campaign for deeper re-playability and advanced gameplay.
Following the U.S. Marines in the Pacific campaign, Call of Duty: World at War shows a side of World War II never seen previously in the series. Players will experience swamps, beach invasions and tropical undergrowth against as they go head to head with one of the most brutal enemies of the war. The European campaign will feature uncompromising and vicious battles as the Red Army pushes into the heart of Berlin.
Multiplayer delivers squad-based interaction while expanding on the Party System feature with party privacy and match-making preferences. Combined infantry and vehicle missions add a new dimension to the online warfare. Players unlock a dozen new Perks while participating in epic battles ranging from massive wide open fields in the European theatre to the intimate courtyards of a Japanese castle.
Call of Duty: World at War, rated M for Mature, is available now on Xbox 360 and PS3 for $59.99, the PC and the Wii for $49.99. Call of Duty: World at War is also available for the NDS, developed by n-Space, the title is rated "T" (Teen) for Blood and Violence, with a suggested retail price of $29.99.
FaceBreaker K.O. Party (Wii)
FaceBreaker K.O. Party drops you into a world filled with eye-popping stylized graphics and ego wielding characters that will have you raring to get your pummel on. With pick-up-and-punch controls, gamers of all skill levels can jump right into the action. From jabs to charged punches, every motion has been built to be both intuitive and responsive. Throw a flurry of punches with the Wii Remote, or Nunchuk, and watch as your character does the same.
Emphasizing social play, FaceBreaker K.O. Party features two exclusive multiplayer modes that encourage gamers to play together. T.K.O, or Team Knock-Out, allows four players to choose a team of boxers to bring into the ring where the last boxer standing takes the victory. In Punch-o-matic, random is the name of the game. Prior to every match players will pull a lever that will add a surprise to the standard bout. From power-ups dropping in the ring that give you the ability to freeze your opponent to ever-changing game speeds; you'll never know what to expect in this party mode.
Laugh out loud as you pummel your opponent with a barrage of blows to the face, and watch in satisfaction as your progress is illustrated by real-time facial deformation. With haymakers, face shots and body blows, wait for the right moment to drop a Breaker to make your presence known. Taunt your adversaries and flaunt your talent, by boxing with one hand behind your back to add ultimate humiliation to your bout. In FaceBreaker K.O. Party, rearranging faces just feels better when done with friends.
Developed by EA Canada, FaceBreaker K.O. Party, rated T for Teen and 12+, is now available for the Wii with an MSRP of $39.99.
Guinness World Records: The Videogame (NDS/Wii)
In the only videogame based on actual Guinness World Records, players can strive to become world record holders as they compete in 36 engaging challenges that the entire family will enjoy. Gamers can even compete to become a "Virtual Guinness World Records Holder" by posting their results for each event online to see how they stack up against the competition. Those with the best scores have a chance to win the ultimate prize of being immortalized in the official book of Guinness World Records.
"Guinness World Records: The Videogame offers fans an immersive, interactive Guinness World Records experience they can share with friends and family," said Tom Stone, Managing Director of TT Games Publishing. "Players can feel the rush of becoming a Guinness World Records holder using lifelike motions and actions that will have them feeling like they have just competed in a record breaking event."
Guinness World Records: The Videogame allows players of all ages and abilities to create their very own customized avatars to participate in quick-fire action challenges that can be played solo, in teams or in competitive multi-player groups. The accessible gameplay mechanics utilize unique and engaging Wii and DS controls that enable anyone to conquer a diverse set of records ranging from "Longest Fingernails" and "Longest Motorcycle Jump" to "Most Arrows Caught" and even "Fastest Time to Eat a Plane."
As gamers traverse the globe in search of gameplay glory, they can collect trophies, fact cards and record breaking certificates, as well as Guinness World Records Coins that can be used to unlock new events and zany supplies such as trampolines and space hoppers. Along the journey, players uncover interesting facts about real-life records that have been set in different locations around the world.
Guinness World Records: The Videogame, rated E 10+ for Everyone 10 and older, is available for the Wii for $39.99. The NDS version is rated "E" (Everyone) and is available for$29.99.
Hello Kitty: Big City Dreams (NDS)
"When you work with a renowned global icon like Hello Kitty there must be a balance between meeting the expectations of the loyal fanbase while opening the experience up to newcomers to the franchise," said Karim Farghaly, Vice President of Sales, Empire Interactive. "By working closely with Sanrio and allowing our developer to add the perfect touch to the game, we are confident that Hello Kitty: Big City Dreams will be the premier, must-have title for girls, Hello Kitty fans, and DS adventure gamers this holiday season."
In Hello Kitty: Big City Dreams, players take the role of Hello Kitty, guiding her through her new life in the Big City. For the first time, Hello Kitty steps away from her beloved Sanrio Town in hopes of realizing her dream of one day moving from her modest ground floor apartment into a big city penthouse. Not to worry though, Hello Kitty will not be alone; her Sanrio Town pals like Keroppi, Badtz-Maru, Tuxedosam, My Melody, and many more will be joining her in the Big City. The adventure will have fans exploring a full 3D city and playing a variety of games with their favorite Sanrio characters, earning friendship points to help Hello Kitty fulfill her Big City dreams.
By completing mini-games like Restaurant Rush, Arcade Hero, and Destination: Dance, Hello Kitty will earn friendship points which she can use to unlock new outfits and new themes to customize her apartment with, as well as ride the bus or train around town to see all of her old friends. The games' difficulty level will increase along the way, leaving it up to the player to help Hello Kitty move up floor by floor, with the ultimate goal of reaching her dream penthouse in the sky.
Hello Kitty: Big City Dreams hits stores Nov. 11, 2008 for an MSRP of $29.99.
Mirror's Edge (PS3/X360)
Mirror's Edge is a unique first-person action adventure where players are introduced to Faith, a 'runner' in a world where communication channels are highly monitored and the movement of information is closely watched. In the game, players step straight into the shoes of this modern day heroine who traverses vertigo-inducing cityscape, engaging in intense combat, fast-paced chases and challenging puzzles. When Faith's sister gets framed for murder, Faith finds herself on the edge of the city, on the wrong side of the law.
"We set out to create a game unlike any other; from the core gameplay controls to the main character and the look of the world, we wanted to give gamers a new experience," said Owen O'Brien, Senior Producer, DICE. "We're eager for players to experience what true first-person movement feels like in a game. Faith is a very human heroine with no super powers or even a weapon that has been put in an extraordinary situation where she must rely on her agility, intelligence and strength to stay alive."
Mirror's Edge, rated "T for Teen and 16+, is now available worldwide on Xbox 360 and PS3, with the PC version scheduled to ship in North America January 2009. To keep the action coming after launch, DICE is currently developing downloadable content that will be available at the beginning of the year. More details to be announced shortly.
National Geographic Panda (NDS)
Developed in conjunction with National Geographic, players will get to nurture and play with their own cute pandas while learning more about these endangered creatures through the game's library of past National Geographic magazine articles.
National Geographic Panda gives players a unique opportunity to teach, play and care for a group of fun loving panda in the serene Panda Park. Interact with these rambunctious creatures by bathing them and teaching new tricks with easy touch screen controls. Taking the interaction one step further, reward their good behavior with toys and new clothes that can be purchased with the daily allowance provided. Furthermore, more than 20 National Geographic magazine articles will also be unlocked as the game is played; giving adoptive panda parents a chance to learn all about the lives of these endangered animals.
Together with the articles, National Geographic Panda also comes packaged with the Secrets of the Wild Panda bonus DVD. This hour-long special follows a team of scientists in Central China as they track and study a mother panda bear and her newborn baby. Rarely seen outside of captivity, this mother and cub pair gives scientists a unique glimpse into the trials and tribulations of raising a newborn panda.
"Namco Bandai Games and National Geographic are known for delivering quality entertainment products and National Geographic Panda is no exception," said Todd Thorson, director of marketing and public relations at Namco Bandai Games. "Its fun and immersive gameplay, along with its educational elements make National Geographic Panda a must-have for Nintendo DS owners of all ages."
National Geographic Panda is rated "E" for everyone by the ESRB and carries a MSRP of $29.99.
Populous DS (NDS)
Based on the original Populous PC classic from Electronic Arts, Populous DS brings a re-imagination of the classic game which pioneered the God simulation genre. The unique features of the DS improve upon the original as the touch-screen controls utilize the dual screens allowing players to manipulate 5 elementally-imbued gods, each with their own unique miracles, within an extensive single-player campaign. Within the multiplayer wireless mode, up to 4 players can unleash earthquakes, tidal waves and raging volcanoes to wreck havoc on opponents' lands.
The Populous DS game play is fresh for returning players as additional gods, each with their own miracles and demon counterpart, have been added, while returning fans will recognize the classic maps from previous editions of Populous in homage to this legendary series.
Populous DS carries a suggested retail price of $29.99 and is rated "E10" for "Everyone 10 and Older."
Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 (PSP/PS2/PS3/X360/PC)
Known by millions of fans for its superior gameplay and incredible realism, PES 2009 will further bridge the gap between the video game and the real thing. The game has undergone a stunning graphical update creating more realistic and life-like players while enhancing camera angles for multiple perspectives during gameplay. Additionally, PES features all-new options like stylish new moves, innovative control schemes, key online elements and team customization.
Featuring real players, a large variety of licensed teams and a number of professional arenas, gamers will be able to re-create the excitement surrounding the world's most popular sport. As in previous releases, the ball is treated as a separate entity, with the timing of shots completely controlled by the player. An updated AI system ensures that teammates will be constantly seeking out open space, taking intelligent offensive and defensive lines toward the goal, and actively call for the ball. Dribbling control has also been enhanced, and a number of subtle moves have been added to bypass defenders in order to move the ball into space.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 offers gamers the ability to compete as the world's best players as it is the only soccer game on the market to have the UEFA Champions League Mode. To further the gameplay's authenticity, the game features an improved 'Master League Mode' and also introduces the revolutionary 'Become a Legend Mode.' Offering the same ability to create and manage their own team, The 'Master League Mode' now also allows for players to master their ball handling skills. In 'Become a Legend Mode' gamers can watch their star evolve through their career and chart the ups and downs as they move on to stardom.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2009 is now available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2 and PSP.
Sacred 2 (PC)
Sacred 2: Fallen Angel is a hack-and-slash action-RPG with a rich story that takes place in a giant, open-ended and seamless world. This world contains massive dungeons, treacherous opponents and hundreds of challenging quests. Intelligent enemies, steadily adapting in number and difficulty based on player progress, challenge players in heroic single- and multiplayer battles for up to 16 gamers on the Games for Windows platform, and four-player cooperative games on consoles.
Sacred 2: Fallen Angel provides hundreds of unique items that can be gathered in this mystical world. A deep reward system further enables advancements in character, individual attributes and character-specific fighting styles, each designed to keep players returning to the world of Sacred 2: Fallen Angel to discover what is around the next bend. Drop-in styled cooperative multiplayer gameplay ensures players will enjoy the game alone or seamlessly with friends at any time. Five unique multiplayer modes for up to 16 gamers round out the rich features, and offer a refreshing, first-class gaming experience in Sacred 2: Fallen Angel.
Minimum System Requirements:
- Windows XP / XP64 / Vista / Vista64
- 2.4 GHz Processor
- 1 GB Available System Memory
- 256 MB 3D Video Card (Nvidia GeForce 6800 / ATI Radeon x800)
- DirectX Compatible Sound Card
- 20 GB Free Hard Drive Space
- DirectX 9.0c
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance (NDS) /
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels (Wii)
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Jedi Alliance, developed exclusively for Nintendo DS by Lucasfilm Animation for publication by LucasArts, lets gamers experience the awesome power when two Jedi join forces to fight as one. With an innovative stylus-based input, controlling the Jedi's movement and engaging in lightsaber combat has never felt more immersive.
Star Wars The Clone Wars: Lightsaber Duels, developed by Krome Studios exclusively for Wii, delivers fun-filled Lightsaber battles for the entire family while it immerses players in the characters, locations, and epic duels from the hit animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which airs Fridays on Cartoon Network in the U.S. Built from the ground-up for Wii, Lightsaber Duels features an intuitive motion-controlled combat system that puts the lightsaber weapon in your hand for non-stop fun.
"We wanted to give Star Wars fans two fun ways to experience The Clone Wars," said Feargus Carroll, project lead from Lucasfilm Animation Singapore. "Aspiring Jedi can swing their Wii Remotes while recreating their favorite battles from the TV show on the Wii and fans can experience an entirely new storyline on the Nintendo DS."
Sudoku for Dummies (PC)
Sudoku For Dummies allows players to master Sudoku, one of the world's most popular and addictive puzzle games. Sudoku enthusiasts will enjoy tackling 500 different puzzles with multiple difficulty levels. Sudoku novices can participate in a full-feature practice mode that will help improve their Sudoku skills using tools like a highlighting option, potential candidate hints, and more. Players of all ages and abilities can learn, practice and play Sudoku in Sudoku For Dummies and engage in hours of mind-bending fun!
Sudoku For Dummies is rated E for Everyone by the ESRB and has an MSRP of $19.99. The game becomes available today for PC download in the US, Canada and UK on Pogo.com
Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World (Wii)
Set two years after the events of the award-winning Tales of Symphonia, Dawn of the New World introduces two new young heroes, Emil Castagnier and Marta Lualdi, as they journey to find the cause of a catastrophic change in their world. Crossing paths with fan-favorite characters such as Lloyd, Colette and Sheena, the brave adventurers will also encounter a spirit known as Ratatosk, lord of all monsters, who will grant them new and incredible powers over the fearsome creatures that now roam the land.
Debuting a major new gameplay system for the Tales series, Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World allows players to capture more than 200 unique monsters that they face in battle. Players can feed these monsters to make them more powerful, and even evolve them into several new fearsome forms. Up to three monsters can be taken into any battle situation, offering unique benefits against enemies and imparting new strategic depth to the Tales series' lauded real-time battle system. Featuring a massive cast of returning playable characters, Dawn of the New World offers complete freedom in creating a custom party that best suits the needs of each enemy encounter. Up to four players can enjoy the full game together cooperatively, working together to strategically complete each battle.
"Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World offers the definitive role-playing experience on Wii with an engrossing storyline, a new monster collection system and the Tales series' trademark real-time battles, providing the depth of content that gamers have been asking for" said Todd Thorson, director of marketing and public relations with Namco Bandai Games America, Inc. "With Dawn of the New World and also Tales of Vesperia for the Xbox 360, we've made the 10th anniversary of the Tales series a major milestone for role-playing fans across the country and set a high mark for quality that we intend to build upon as we look toward the future of this incredible franchise."
Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World for Wii carries a suggested retail price of $39.99 and is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB.