Microsoft kicked off the greatest holiday lineup in video game history by announcing it will reduce the estimated retail price (ERP) of Xbox 360 by $50 (U.S.) beginning Aug. 8. Soon to follow, Electronic Arts Inc. (EA) will release its blockbuster video game title Madden NFL 08 on Aug. 14.

Lost Empire is a turn-based space strategy game set in the 47th century featuring an epic storyline about the struggle for survival of the seven remaining civilizations in the galaxy and their battle with the mad goddess Enais.

Originally known in Japan as Sengoku Musou Wave, KOEI confirmed that its Wii exclusive sword fighting title has been renamed to Sengoku Musou Slash, and will be coming to North America as Samurai Warriors: Katana, early 2008.

Valve announced it has rolled out the public beta for its largest Steam update yet. The update, which will be available free of charge, introduces an expansive set of social networking and online multiplayer features to its digital delivery platform.

On Oct. 7, 2005, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation banning the sale of violent video games to children. The video game industry filed an appeal few days later, and since the law was on hold until Judge Ronald Whyte had a chance to review the facts. According to Gamepolitics the Judge has now thrown out the law as unconstitunional saying, "The evidence does not establish that video games, because of their interactive nature or otherwise, are any more harmful than violent television, movies, internet sites or other speech-related exposures."

Bladestorm will offer massive battles mixed with strategy, much like the Dynasty Warriors titles, but one of the main differences is that the game will be situated in the Western medieval timeframe.

August and the rest of the summer are shaping up to be scorching hot on Xbox LIVE Arcade. Perfect for whittling away the long days of summer are a bevy of unique sports games, classic and futuristic fighting games, as well as a few other surprises, all of which will be making their way to Xbox LIVE Arcade in the coming weeks.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl is Nintendo's latest incarnation in the popular Super Smash Bros. series of titles featuring all new characters ranging from Kirby and Wario to Samus, and even Metal Gear Solid's Snake.

SCEA announced the availability of a new 80GB PS3 units at online and brick-and-mortar retailers in the United States and Canada. The system, available immediately for a suggested retailer price of $599US/$659 CND, comes with the hit online-enabled off-road racing game MotorStorm packed in the box.

Feel what it’s like to be a field general making key personnel decisions on both sides of the ball during the game’s biggest moments in Madden NFL 08. Play to your team’s strengths by reading your opponent’s schemes and reacting to the action as soon as the ball is snapped.