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Tuesday, March 24, 2009 Shipping Announcements

by Rainier on March 24, 2009 @ 3:49 a.m. PDT

Cate West: The Vanishing Files (Wii)

A series of unsolvable crimes dubbed "The Vanishing Files" has paralyzed the city. The answers are at the tip of your fingers as you seek, search and discover with the Wii Remote. Help Cate West unravel a citywide mystery that has paralyzed the community. The answers are in the palm of your hands as you seek, search and discover with the Wii Remote. Help Cate compile evidence, track down hideouts, and discover the link between these crimes and an unsolved mystery from her past!

Features:

  • 15 Mysterious Chapters: Find the clues, solve the riddles, and earn one of three different endings!
  • 5 Investigation Types: Different crime scenes call for different techniques. Find clues, evidence pieces, and differences between two similar scenes. Recreate crime scenes and use everything you've learned to identify the criminal!
  • Multiplayer: Team up with a friend to find clues in Story Mode, or go head-to-head to see who is the best detective in Competitive mode!
  • Wii-exclusive Features: Use your Wii Remote to clean away dust from clues, or as a flashlight to uncover evidence in a darkened crime scene. Use the all-new magnifying glass for a closer look at your surroundings.
  • Twists and Turns: Discover over 1,000 clues in 57 unique backgrounds! Replay your favorite puzzle in Quick Play mode! Solve a compelling mystery with shocking twists and turns!

Fallout 3: The Pitt (X360/PC)

Fallout 3 features one of the most realized game worlds ever created. Set more than 200 years following a nuclear war, you can create any kind of character you want and explore the open wastes of Washington, D.C however you choose. Every minute is a fight for survival as you encounter Super Mutants, Ghouls, Raiders, and other dangers of the Wasteland.

The Pitt allows you to travel to the post-apocalyptic remains of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and become embroiled in a conflict between slaves and their Raider masters. Explore a sprawling settlement ravaged by time, neglect, nuclear radiation, and moral degradation. The Pitt is filled with morally grey choices, shady NPCs, new enemies, new weapons, and much more.

The Pitt opens with a desperate radio message, and a meeting with its sender, an escaped slave named Wernher. Wernher claims that the leader of "The Pitt" has created a cure for mutations… and he needs you to go in and retrieve it. From there, the player can proceed in a number of ways, in true Fallout 3 style. Do you fight your way in, or disguise yourself as a slave? Ally with the slaves, or join their Raider overlords? The Pitt is very morally ambiguous – there's no real right or wrong, just choices to be made, sides to be chosen, and a mystery that could send shockwaves throughout the entire Wasteland.

Features:

  • Explore an entire new area – the post-apocalyptic ruins of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, known as The Pitt!
  • Find and use new weaponry, such as the AutoAxe, a new melee weapon with a powerful, serrated rotary blade hungry for flesh.
  • Discover new side quests and subtle plot elements and determine your path in this place where nothing is "right" or "wrong."
  • Exclusive new perks and achievements!

The Pitt will be available for Xbox 360 and PC in March 24, 2009 for 800 points/$9.99.

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time (NDS/Wii)

This innovative new title spans two Nintendo platforms at once, introducing players to a new level of multiplayer connectivity. For the first time, Wii and DS users can adventure side-by-side, playing anytime, anywhere with anyone in the vibrant world of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles.

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time allows for an effortless switch between its single and multiplayer modes, offering an integrated system that adapts to the player's preferences. Featuring the intuitive control scheme of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates® and a breakthrough in gaming connectivity, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time is set to deliver hours of fun to players, whether they are playing at home or on the go.

A triumphant return from a monster-infested forest marks the completion of the 16-year-old hero's coming-of-age ceremony. However, the hero's joy is short-lived as a young village girl is found to be afflicted by a mysterious illness known as "crystal sickness." Determined to obtain the cure, the hero steps out of the secluded village for the first time, only to discover a world in which crystals are merely artifacts of the past and no longer exist . . .

Features:

  • Play anytime, anywhere with anyone! Multiplayer connectivity reaches new heights in Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time, where players can team up or compete with friends and players around the world
  • The intuitive control scheme introduced in Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates returns, now adapted to Wii for double the action
  • Players can switch between single and multiplayer modes at any time while playing, enjoying two great gaming options in one integrated experience
  • A personalized hero can be generated from a choice of the four familiar races of the series: Clavats, Lilties, Selkies or Yukes. Players joining from the Wii can also introduce their Miis to the world of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles
  • Create and customize materials, armor and equipment for characters with tailored appearances and abilities -- no two heroes will be the same!
  • Players can continue to enjoy the game even after completing the main adventure, as the New Game+ feature provides increased difficulty and better items with every new round
  • A vast selection of quests delivers hours of fun!

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Echoes of Time, rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and older, is now available at North American retailers for $39.99.

GONG! Goal or No Goal (PC)

GONG!, available for PC, is already being played online in nearly 20 countries, including the United States, Brazil, Vietnam, Egypt and Mexico. This three vs. three multiplayer online soccer game has established itself as the one of the hottest online soccer game communities on the Web. The exclusive retail product features a premium subscription that provides faster leveling-up and increased rate of earning stars, access to VIP events, as well as 800 starter coins that can be used for in-game transactions.

"GONG! Goal or No Goal is a family-friendly game whose distinctive fusion of social interaction, casual sports MMO and online community experience have already made it a global success," said Wim Stocks, vice president of Sales and Strategic Partnerships for THQ.

Developed by Sleepy Giant, GONG! Goal or No Goal, rated E for everyone, is available for $19.99, consumers who purchase the game at Target will receive a VIP package totaling more than $60 of retail exclusive content.

Last Remnant (PC)

In ancient times, mysterious artifacts referred to as Remnants were discovered all over the world. Offering incredible power, they soon came into the hands of the covetous few, and thus was the world's delicate equilibrium shattered. The people were divided into those who ruled and those who were ruled over. War was inevitable. Our story begins a thousand years later…

Rush lives with his sister Irina on the secluded Eulam Island, a place far removed from the ceaseless battle for control over the Remnants which rages on the mainland. However, his peaceful life is shattered one day when he witnesses his sister's abduction by a mysterious group of soldiers. He immediately sets off after them, ill-prepared for the evils of the outside world but determined to find his sister at any cost.

The Games for Windows version of The Last Remnant features all-new elements not seen in the Xbox 360 version, such as a speed selection option for battle sequences and the removal of leader unit restrictions when creating unions.

Features:

  • A new adventure from Square Enix and the creators of the Final Fantasy series
  • Innovative battle system that allows for large-scale battles delivered with an unrivalled cinematic intensity
  • Selective Encounter System allows you to engage the enemy your way, eliminating random battles
  • New features in the PC version include:
    • Option to select Japanese or English voice-overs
    • Unlimited leader units available for placement in unions
    • Autosave and normal save functions available between consecutive battles
    • Graphical weapon previews assist players with weapon selection
    • New allied characters to aid players in battle
    • Improved character animations
    • Increased speed of gameplay in battle sequences

The Last Remnant is rated M for Mature and will be available at North American retailers for the suggested retail price of $39.99.

Lux-Pain (NDS)

Showcasing the work of hot Japanese animator Robin Kishiwada, whose credits include cover illustrations for Eureka Seven series, Lux-Pain features music composed by Kenji Ito, well-known for the music in SaGa, Mana, and Culdcept series', and Yasuyuki Suzuki, of Operation Logic Bomb, Tail of the Sun, and Space Invaders Extreme fame.

Lux-Pain is set in historical Kisaragi City, a town plagued by mysteries from small mishaps to murders - with no logical explanation as to why these events occur. It seems "Silent", a worm born through hate and sadness, has infected humans and forced them to commit atrocious crimes. The hero's parents are victims of such crimes. To avenge his parents, Atsuki goes through a dangerous operation to acquire Lux-Pain in his left arm, a power so strong that his left eye turns golden when using it to seek and destroy Silent for good.

Features:

  • Investigate your surroundings and gather hints by conversing with characters in the game
  • Explore the massive world of Kisaragi City
  • Use your stylus to conduct autopsies of Silent worms found throughout the game
  • Psychic Powers enable you to save potential victims from Silent. Use your stylus to find the parasite before it reaches the heart of the victim.

Monsters vs. Aliens (NDS/PS2/PS3/X360/PC)

When aliens attack, monsters fight back in Monsters vs. Aliens, the video game based on the highly anticipated 3D feature film from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc, which will debut on March 27. Starting today, gamers can experience heart pounding action and silly antics as they lead a dynamic team of misfit monsters on a mission to protect earth from destruction.

"Monsters vs. Aliens allows players to control the characters from the film and use their unique abilities to battle alien enemies throughout the game," said Rob Kostich, head of marketing for licensed properties, Activision Publishing, Inc. "Players invite a friend to grab a Wii Remote(TM) or controller and join forces at any time to help clear enemies, collect monster DNA and overcome obstacles as their favorite monster heroes."

The Monsters vs. Aliens video game calls players into action to battle against Gallaxhar and his alien robot army. Taking on the roles of The Missing Link, the macho half-ape, half-fish; the gelatinous, indestructible and always hungry B.O.B.; and Ginormica, the 49-foot-11-inch tall woman, gamers team up with the helpful genius Dr. Cockroach, Ph.D. and Insectosaurus, the 350-foot tall grub to defeat the alien invaders. Players master the unique and diverse abilities of each character as they ooze, brawl, skate, puzzle solve, climb, crawl, jump and race through more than 20 levels on Earth and through outer space.

Monsters vs. Aliens, developed by Beenox and Amaze Entertainment (NDS), is available for the Xbox 360, Wii and the PS3 for $49.99; the PS2 and NDS for $29.99 and PC for $19.99. The console and Game for Windows versions have been rated "E10+" (Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief); the handheld game has been rated "E" (Comic Mischief, Mild Cartoon Violence) by the ESRB.

MotoGP (Wii)

This is the first officially licensed MotoGP title to be published for the Wii platform and comes as part of Capcom's five year deal with Dorna Sports, providing exclusive rights to publish video games based on the world's premier motorcycle championship across all hardware platforms.

MotoGP for Wii turns the Wii Remote into a virtual set of handlebars to deliver the definitive two-wheeled racing experience. Players are put at the center of the MotoGP experience by letting them join a team and compete alongside their sporting heroes in all three race classes – 125cc, 250cc and MotoGP. The game features a scaled and competitive AI which adjusts within limits to give a more enjoyable race experience on the lower levels but shows no mercy in the higher levels.

Players will be able to decide what motorcycle and racing style suits them best in Tutorial mode. Rather than taking players ‘out of the main game', this mode will transport them immediately into an arcade race and offers tips right at the start.

In Career mode, players can develop their racing skills for up to 5 seasons with the aim of becoming the ultimate MotoGP champion. Choosing a team and bike class at the beginning of each season, riders can make customizations through a selection of bike helmet designs that unlock as players progress. As races are won, stronger teams will be looking to recruit for the following season, enabling players to race better performing bikes. Climbing the ranks will also allow access to certain bike upgrades which improve the rider's performance across a range of parameters such as straight line speed, acceleration, braking and cornering.

Players can choose their favorite track and rider in Quick race mode or set the best time at each circuit, competing against themselves to shave vital seconds off their personal record in Time Attack mode. If that's not enough then select any class, rider and team and re-create an entire season in Championship mode. The weather conditions, difficulty setting, number of laps and handling model can all be decided, allowing players to shape their own season.

MotoGP for Wii also features a two player head-to-head option with the addition of AI controlled bikes to add more of a challenge to the race.

Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures: Fright of the Bumblebees (PC)

Wallace and Gromit, the well-meaning but accident-prone inventor and his capable and highly-intelligent canine companion, have been delighting audiences with their animated adventures for twenty years. Their most recent outing, Wallace & Gromit in A Matter of Loaf and Death, aired with record-setting viewership this past Christmas. Telltale's Wallace & Gromit games are designed for the same all-ages crowd as the films, and will be appreciated by gamers and non-gamers alike.

Alternating between the roles of both Wallace and Gromit throughout the game, players will banter with a charismatic cast of characters, tinker with Wallace's creative contraptions, and enjoy four all-new stories set in the colorful Wallace & Gromit universe. Given the franchise's global appeal, Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures includes subtitles in German, French, Italian, and Spanish. In today's debut episode, "Fright of the Bumblebees," Wallace attempts to save his bumbling honey business through the growth of supersized flowers. When these giant flowers lead to an unintended consequence, giant bees, Gromit must step in to save the town from the angry swarm.

Sean Clarke, Head of Aardman Rights said: "The partnership with Telltale was a natural one. Their talent for crafting engaging adventures with humour and charm fits well with the Wallace & Gromit style, and the four games of Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures make excellent new additions to the series."

To celebrate the series premiere, Telltale is offering the full series on PC for the limited-time special price of $29.95 (approx. £21), a 15% savings on the regular price of $34.95 (approx. £24). During the launch week, customers who purchase Wallace & Gromit's Grand Adventures will also get an amazing 50% discount on all other items in Telltale's store, including the acclaimed Sam & Max games, Strong Bad's Cool Game for Attractive People, and related merchandise. These special offers expire March 29.

Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden (PS2)

Naruto returns to Hidden Leaf Village after two and a half years of strict training with his mentor Jiraiya. After reuniting with his friends, Naruto learns that the ever present Akatsuki organization has become a larger threat than ever before. Take control of an older and more powerful Naruto as he takes on a new quest to rescue his rival Sasuke from the evil Lord Orochimaru and battle the ever-looming Akatsuki.

Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden features several unique game modes that offer different experiences as players immerse themselves in the world of ninja. A new Master Mode combines role-playing and action-platforming elements. This new mode tells original narrative arc that fans won't find anywhere else; the story of Naruto's return to the Hidden Leaf Village after training with Jiraiya. Players can also collect items to unlock characters in Free Battle Mode which features the series' trademark one-on-one ninja battles for one or two players. Packed with new Naruto Shippuden characters including Deidara, Sasori and Chiyo as well as updated versions of fan favorites, the game features 52 total playable characters to take into battle.

"Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden will give North American gamers a first-look into the exciting new world of Naruto Shippuden," said Todd Thorson, director of marketing and public relations for Namco Bandai. "Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden combines over 50 characters, new modes, the new Naruto Shippuden storyline and the acclaimed Ultimate Ninja fighting engine into one of the most intense and complete Naruto experiences ever."

Developed by CyberConnect2, Ultimate Ninja 4: Naruto Shippuden is rated T for Teen by the ESRB and will have a MSRP of $39.99.

Wanted: Weapons of Fate (PS3/X360/PC)

Based on Universal Pictures' action-thriller Wanted, the game is an intense, third-person action game that takes combat to a new level with iconic techniques and moves drawn directly from the film — such as "Curving Bullets" and "Assassin Time" — as well as an innovative, multi-layered cover mechanic.

The storyline of Wanted: Weapons of Fate picks up where the film leaves off, providing fans with a new stage to explore in hero Wesley's journey to becoming an über-assassin in a secret organization of killers. In the game, players can take on the role of Wesley or his father, Cross, to confront all new enemies — including the French chapter of the Fraternity, a group that is fanatical about upholding the code of the Loom of Fate. The French chapter is headed by The Immortal, a severe Fraternity leader with a grudge against Wesley and his family. It also employs Araña, a beautiful-but-deadly Spanish assassin and Brummel, the businessman/assassin who is as street smart as he is sophisticated.

The game includes the vocal talents of Thomas Kretschmann, who reprises his film role as Cross, a former member of the Fraternity who finds himself the target of those who were once his allies. Terence Stamp also returns to his role from the film as Pekwarsky, a close friend of the Killer with knowledge of the inner workings and secrets of the Fraternity. Grammy® Award-winning hip-hop artist and actor Common voices the role of Brummel, while Paz Vega plays Araña. Additionally, award-winning actor Peter Stormare lends his voice as The Immortal, the leader of the French Fraternity who will stop at nothing to follow the film's Fraternity of Weavers.

Wanted, starring James McAvoy, Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie, the blockbuster feature film upon which the games is based, recently debuted on DVD and Blu-ray Hi-Def from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Universal Studios Home Entertainment's Wanted DVD and Blu-ray feature 10 secret codes for the Wanted: Weapons of Fate video game hidden among the menu screen and bonus features. Eight codes are on both the 2-disc special edition DVD and Blu-ray editions, and two additional codes reside solely in the Blu-ray version. The codes unlock a new character, access enhanced weaponry and exclusive game modes, among other options.

Wanted: Weapons of Fate, rated "M" for Mature, is available for Xbox 360 and PS3 3 for $59.99, while the PC edition is available for $49.99.

WWE Legends of WrestleMania (PS3/X360)

WWE Legends of WrestleMania features a distinguished roster of WWE Legends and Managers, including Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant and Bobby "the Brain" Heenan, a new grapple-based fighting system and the opportunity to relive, rewrite and redefine key moments in WrestleMania history

WWE Legends of WrestleMania embraces the leading sports entertainment organization's rich history allowing gamers to relive, rewrite and redefine the definitive elements of WWE from the Eighties and Nineties. Players can experience the entertaining lives of 40 larger-than-life Legends, including Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, Stone Cold Steve Austin and the Rock, as well as have control over Legendary Managers like Bobby "the Brain" Heenan and Jimmy Hart, each of whom will play crucial roles in match outcomes. The game's new grapple-based fighting system will capture the high-energy action and drama seen in vintage WWE matches, while a historically accurate representation of past WWE telecasts will set the stage, including dynamic visual treatments, signature ring entrances and notable venues. WWE Legends of WrestleMania also includes a WrestleMania Tour Mode that allows players to participate in key matches from multiple WrestleMania events, a Create-a-Legend system to develop the Legends of tomorrow, and connectivity with WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009, which will enable owners of both videogames to match up Legends with the Superstars of today. In addition, online functionality allows players to compete on the biggest stages in WWE history.

"WWE Legends of WrestleMania delivers a unique, yet easy to pick up and play experience that is certain to have widespread appeal in the global marketplace," said Scott Guthrie, executive vice president, publishing, THQ. "Through its compelling roster, arcade-style control system, vintage WWE presentation and more, fans everywhere can now experience their favorite WWE moments of the past on two of the biggest videogame consoles."

"WWE Legends of WrestleMania fully embraces the WWE during the Eighties and Nineties," said Nelo Lucich, senior vice president of interactive, JAKKS Pacific. "We look forward to seeing gamers compete in classic feuds and create a history of their own."

WWE Legends of WrestleMania, rated "T" for Teen, is available for the suggested retail price of $59.99.

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