Backyard Hockey DS (NDS)

Now in its fourth iteration, Backyard Hockey features all new graphics and environments, authentic gameplay, and innovative controls, giving kids a more fun and realistic hockey experience. Backyard Hockey lets kids pick their team, call the plays, and direct all the on-ice action. And with the intuitive dual screen controls of the Nintendo DS, kids have a choice of maneuvering players using the touch screen or control pad.

The only youth game to hold the NHL and National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) licenses, Backyard Hockey includes all 30 NHL Clubs, with uniforms and logos as well as a roster of animated kid versions of current NHL stars including Andrew Raycroft of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jaromir Jagr of the New York Rangers, as well as 2007 Norris Trophy winner, Detroit Red Wings' Nicklas Lidstrom, who appears in the game and as the cover athlete.

"When it comes to kids' video games, Backyard Hockey is one of the best. I have four sons who are all big fans of the game so I am very familiar with its quality and fun," said Lidstrom. "Backyard Hockey is funny and a bit crazy, but the thing I really like about the game is that it is also realistic so kids actually learn the fundamentals of hockey as they play."

Backyard Hockey is currently the best selling hockey video game franchise exclusively for kids. The game includes multiple levels and features comical scenarios in a kid-friendly, non-violent format.

Key Features:

• NHL and National Hockey League Players' Association licenses
• All current 30 NHL Teams, Uniforms, & Logos
• Updated roster of NHL athletes as kids-Lidstrom, Crosby, Modano, Thornton, Sakic, Jagr, and more
• New NHL plays and strategies
• Season play and single pick up game modes
• 10 New rinks and environments
• New intuitive touch-screen controls
• New wireless DS multi-card play
• Three levels of difficulty
• New power ups, mini games, & surprises

Rated "E" (for Everyone) by ESRB, Backyard Hockey has an MSRP of $29.99 for the Nintendo DS.

Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol (NDS)

Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol is one of the first games based on the growing environmental movement, and it's a great way to get kids and their parents on a green path. In the game, players take on the persona of a cute little robot. They clean up a park by planting flowers, building park equipment and defeating toxic enemies called Smoglings.

Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol lets players use the Nintendo DS touch screen to control actions like watering plants, squirting enemies or riding a bike. Chibi's good deeds are converted into Happy Points that power him and the friendly toys he meets along the way. He even uses environmentally friendly modes of transportation to get around.

"From hybrid cars to energy-conserving light bulbs, everyone is going green," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol represents one of the first environmentally themed video game adventures."

Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol is rated "E" for Everyone and is available exclusively at Wal-Mart stores beginning Oct. 2.

Enemy Territory: Quake Wars (PC)

Enemy Territory: Quake Wars pits the armies of Earth's Global Defense Force (GDF) against the invading alien Strogg in the multiplayer strategic shooter that transports players to the front lines in this ultimate battle for the planet.

"Enemy Territory: Quake Wars is a new and unique approach to multiplayer combat. It combines team objectives with distinct player classes, cutting edge graphics, cool vehicles, and powerful deployables," said id Software CEO, Todd Hollenshead. "Whether your thirst is for the savior or domination of Planet Earth, Enemy Territory: Quake Wars is there to quench it."

Set within the expansive QUAKE universe in the year 2065, Enemy Territory: Quake Wars offers the ultimate in objective-based multiplayer action, either online or offline with computer controlled players. Up to 24 gamers can play online, electing to play as the human GDF or alien Strogg in one of five unique character classes. Employing an arsenal of weapons, vehicles and deployable armaments, players engage in an action-packed test of skill and coordinated teamwork through a series of combat objectives. Persistent character growth and achievements reward gamers for teamwork, while clearly defined mission and class objectives guide new players to meaningful contributions on the battlefield.

"Enemy Territory: Quake Wars represents Splash Damage's first full retail game and it would not have been possible if it weren't for the support of id Software, the incredible investment on behalf of the team members over these past four years and the dedication of such an active community around the Demo and the Betas," said Splash Damage Owner and Creative Director Paul Wedgwood. "We really can't thank fans enough for their incredible support and getting us this far. We can't wait to see the game on store shelves!"

Enemy Territory: Quake Wars delivers the most diverse battlefields, from real-world locations, including deserts, glaciers, mountains and countrysides. id Software's new MegaTexture rendering technology renders unprecedented large, highly-detailed and un-tiled outdoor environments all the way to the horizon. Outdoor dynamic lighting allows for every battle to be fought during day or night, with accurate simulation of shadows, atmosphere, vegetation, and weather.

Enemy Territory: Quake Wars for PC is rated "T" by the ESRB and carries a suggested retail price of $49.99 for the regular edition and $59.99 for the Limited Collector's Edition.

The Limited Collectors Edition comes complete in a premium package with a bonus DVD featuring tons of additional items and content, including: 10 beautifully rendered, oversized collectible cards, highlighting select Strogg and GDF vehicles and deployables; a bevy of concept art and final artwork, as well as must-haves like exclusive ringtones.

FlatOut Ultimate Carnage (X360)

FlatOut Ultimate Carnage takes the trademark mayhem of FlatOut and FlatOut 2, lifting destruction racing to a whole new level of bone-breaking slaughter. FlatOut Ultimate Carnage captures arcade destruction racing at its best and most extreme with real world physics, three different game modes, stunts and competitions.

Developed by Bugbear Entertainment, FlatOut Ultimate Carnage is rebuilt from the ground up and specifically developed to take advantage of the additional feature sets and improved processing ability of the Xbox 360 to produce an entirely new, breathtaking FlatOut experience.

Some of the many brand new design and gameplay components featured in FlatOut Ultimate Carnage include 12 cars racing on screen up from eight in FlatOut 2, five all-new single player and two all-new multiplayer game modes over the Xbox Live online game service, over 8,000 dynamic objects per track up from 5,000 in FlatOut 2, widescreen High Definition resolution (720p), dynamic lighting and shadowing all with proper real-time environment mapping on all vehicles, downloadable content via Xbox Live, and 20,000 polygons per car up from 7,500 in the previous generation.

FlatOut fans should also be on the lookout for FlatOut Head On, available on the PSP system, available in November 2007.

Hot Pixel (PSP)

Hot Pixel is a fast-paced and frenetic portable game that challenges players to think on their feet as they are presented with a barrage of 130 diabolical mini-games played in quick succession over just a few scant, exciting, sweat-inducing seconds.

Tailor-made for gamers on the go, Hot Pixel provides players with bite- sized chunks of gaming; each mini-game offering cool tasks and goals which take no more than a few seconds to figure out and complete. These goals range from navigating through an old-school Zaxxon play-alike, busting out tricks on a skateboard, to crowd surfing at a pixilated concert. Each game is infused with a style that is inspired by early 80s Atari arcade classics, and modern- day street culture. Hot Pixel features 130 mini-games available throughout the game, in addition to a bundle of 70 all-new mini-games available to download for free on the official Hot Pixel web site.

"Hot Pixel is a hybrid of old-school retro and street smart cool, combining colorful and stylistic graphics with an electro-pop and hip-hop soundtrack," said Donny Clay, Producer, Atari, Inc. "Players can even remix custom Smart Playlists full of their favorite mini-games. Hot Pixel is right at home on a system that boasts an impeccable style and a rich multimedia experience."

Due to the pick-up-and-play nature of the gameplay, Hot Pixel can be enjoyed by gamers of all types. Hot Pixel also offers a variety of game modes for casual and hardcore players alike; with the Story Mode, players can unlock new game options and variations of the mini-games that encourage social play, while the wireless multiplayer mode allows gamers to vie against each other in heated head-to-head matches.

Hot Pixel is rated "T" for Teen and is available for a suggested retail price of $29.95.

The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (NDS)

The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass requires players to fill up the Phantom Hourglass with sand and give themselves enough time to delve deeper and deeper into the ultimate dungeon. It has received critical praise both in the United States and in Japan, where it launched in late June.

"The storyline for The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass represents a new pinnacle for hand-held video games," says George Harrison, Nintendo of America's senior vice president of marketing and corporate communications. "The touch-screen controls make it easy for newcomers but fresh and engaging for Zelda fans." Veteran gamers should be able to pick it up and start playing instantly.

But what about people who haven't played a Zelda game since the original on the Nintendo Entertainment System(R) in 1987? No worries. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass has players navigate through the game using only the touch screen. Sliding the stylus swings hero Link's sword, while tapping other characters starts conversations or battles. Players can even write notes on their maps to remind them of places they should revisit once they gain more items and experience.

If two players want to spend a little time together with The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, they have two options. If they're in the same room, they can play over a local wireless connection. If they're far apart, they can use their Internet connection to log onto Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection and battle in the two-player mode, which lets one player control Link while the other player controls the enemies who are after him.

As a special bonus for Nintendo's rewards club, My Nintendo members who register the game and their Nintendo DS hardware at MyNintendo.com and fill out a short survey will receive a special Nintendo DS stylus that looks like an old-fashioned quill pen (subject to availability).

The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is rated E for Everyone.

Loki: Heroes of Mythology (PC)

Egyptian God, Seth, once condemned to a sealed tomb for his evil and malice ways, has escaped to release a fury of pent-up revenge onto the Norse, Greek, Aztec and Egyptian worlds. You have been chosen by the other gods to help bring order back. Play as a mighty Norse Warrior, a fierce Greek Fighter, a powerful Egyptian Sorcerer or a mystical Aztec Shaman in your quest, traveling through vast territories in fierce battle against hundreds of legendary and deadly enemies. Prepare yourself for fast-paced, action-packed gameplay where it is up to you to conquer all four worlds and put Seth back where he belongs. This hack-and-slash title is loaded with content in its solo, co-op and multiplayer game modes, all wrapped up in stunning environments just waiting to be explored.

Key Features:

• Endless possibilities - Experience your adventure as one of four different mythological heroes each with distinct strengths and combat styles. Worship different gods in order to gain access to more than 200 different skills. A powerful random level generator ensures that you never experience the same game twice.
• Create your legend your way - Embark upon your quests solo or with your friends as part of a group. Challenge others in PvP mode inside a dedicated online arena or dice with death by taking part in one of the online challenges.
• Collect and exchange thousands of items, including 500 unique objects, such as Thor's Hammer and Achilles' Armor. Customize your weapons and armor by visiting the blacksmith's forge. Disassemble and rebuild weapons with new attributes and increase their magical powers with runes.

Loki: Heroes of Mythology for Windows is available for a suggested retail price of $39.99 USD.

NBA 08 (PSP/PS2/PS3)

The three new titles in the NBA 08 franchise offer uniquely different gameplay experiences, and are ready to deliver fans the complete package of basketball gaming with everything from high-definition realism and customization on PS3, to addicting Block Party mini-games on PSP, to "The Life v.3" on PS2.

NBA 08 raises the bar on its high-definition graphics and adds an innovative Upside Progression System, where players earn credits that are used to unlock items as well as modify player attributes and accessories. Additionally the game adds enhanced SIXAXIS wireless controller functionality, and Key Control Play Calling to set primary go-to players. NBA 08 for PSP makes a huge return this year with an engaging handheld NBA experience that features new carnival mini-games as a part of Block Party along with an enhanced Conquest mode. Not to be outdone, realistic NBA action once again returns to PS2 with the acclaimed "The Life" series, this time bringing the third installment with NBA 08 "The Life, v.3."

"NBA 08 showcases the talent of SCEA's development team to create the most realistic and exciting basketball game available across all PlayStation platforms," said Scott Rohde, director, sports product development, SCEA. "From superior graphics, to addicting mini-games, to the conclusion of "The Life v.3", NBA 08 offers something for everyone. No matter what type of basketball gaming our fans want, they can find it on PS3, PS2, and PSP."

NBA 08 delivers an all-new soundtrack complete with some of today's hottest acts from a variety of genres including M.I.A., LCD Soundsystem, legendary old-school artist Gangstarr, four new instrumentals by hip-hop mercenary EL-P, and two by renowned producer The Alchemist. The cover of NBA 08 returns one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, Phoenix Suns All-Star Amare Stoudemire. Taken ninth overall by the Suns in 2002, Stoudemire averaged 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game as a rookie. He finished this past season with an average of 20.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocked shots per game, earning All-NBA First Team honors along with a second All-Star appearance.

In addition to Progression mode, NBA 08 for PS3 brings back an improved NBA Replay mode, complete with new challenges and added realism such as floor markers where shots were actually taken in the game. In conjunction with the SIXAXIS controller, the game also features the new Free 6 enhanced control set that allows fans to use intuitive wireless motions to defend high and low, initiate crossover dribbles, and keep the ball away from defenders in a triple-threat pose. For the first time, NBA 08 includes comprehensive audio commentary from top broadcast talent Kevin Calabro of the Seattle SuperSonics for play-by-play and former NBA great Mark Jackson for color analysis. Finally, the game introduces a never-before-seen Key Control system, where players can issue commands to specific primary players, creating a more "team-based" gaming environment that mimics real play dynamics in the NBA. With a completely reworked user interface, updated character models and environments, and revised online system with player profiles and quick play options, NBA 08 brings an unsurpassed basketball experience to PS3.

NBA 08 for PSP introduces the new Block Party compilation of mini-games specifically designed for players to enjoy quick gaming action anytime. Block Party delivers a host of new mini and carnival style games including Fast Break, Block-a-Shot, and Shootin' Bricks, to provide fans with traditional and non-traditional basketball gameplay. In the enhanced Conquest mode, players challenge various cities to expand their territory domination, with added player and team training as well as city upgrades where players will go from challenges in training centers to playing in full-blown arenas. Additionally, NBA 08 for PSP includes revamped gameplay mechanics and Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) to create a more realistic and action-oriented experience. Combining quick pick-up-and-play mini-games with more in-depth Conquest and Season modes, NBA 08 for PSP offers the most complete portable NBA package available for fans.

For PS2, fans can play the third installation of The Life with NBA 08's "The Life: v.3." In this chapter, players will look to create an NBA dynasty as Coach T. roams the sidelines during his last season. Offering more than 60 different game scenarios, The Life now allows players to experience playing all five starting positions. NBA 08 for PS2 delivers new play-by-play commentary and improved A.I. as well as enhanced on-court and crowd audio. With two-dozen mini-game challenges, online access, and an all-new soundtrack, NBA 08 once again adds up to a robust basketball experience that further brings quality content to PS2.

NBA 08 is rated "E" for "Everyone."

NBA 2K8 (PS2/PS3/X360)

NBA 2K8 is the latest installment of the #1 rated NBA 2K series for three years running and follows NBA 2K7, last year's top-selling basketball game for Xbox 360. As the latest addition to this benchmark franchise, NBA 2K8 sets a new standard for next generation sports gaming with an exciting set of all-new features, improved visuals and gameplay.

Key Features:

• Sprite Slam Dunk Contest: Rock the house 2K style with gravity-defying jams as gamers perform from over 300 dunk variations! Up to four players can play to raise the competition level and even compete online. Bobbito Garcia appears as the emcee of the contest.
• All-New Off-Ball Control: The player isn't just controlling the ballhandler anymore. Now on offense, users can switch off to other players to call for alley-oops, jostle for post-position, set screens, and more.
• Lock-On D: All-new defensive controls give users more control of their player than ever before. Use the right analog to play tighter defense on the ballhandler and run advanced defensive sets.
• The Association: Allows users to run their franchise by identifying player roles, balancing playing time, and keeping team morale up. The Hoopcast Simulator makes simulating games exciting, while SimCentral centralizes all necessary information for real-time stats, standings, injuries, and much more.
• Next Gen Movement Technology: With improved Signature Style technology, player movement has never looked this lifelike! Body actions and movements will react naturally to factors of speed, collisions and momentum, bringing the game to life like never before.
• Music: NBA 2K8 features three exclusive original tracks from the legendary J Dilla with Common, Madlib and Q-Tip with Talib Kweli providing vocals on their respective songs. Rounding out the soundtrack are offerings from Quasimoto, Percee P, Run-DMC, Devo, Cut Chemist, Fishbone, Stone Roses and many more.

NBA 2K8 is rated E for Everyone and is available now for the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 for $59.99, and for the PlayStation 2 for $29.99.

NBA LIVE 08 (ALL)

Providing an unrivaled level of authenticity to the sport, NBA LIVE 08 introduces Hot Spots, where real NBA shot data is used to illuminate the locations on the floor where your players are most effective. Couple this with an intuitive gameplay mechanic called Quickstrike Ballhandling that gives you the direct responsiveness you need to perform a full repertoire of ballhandling moves, and the new shot-countershot control called Own the Paint. On the perimeter, in the paint, and with complete authenticity to the sport of basketball, dominate with your Go-To Move in NBA LIVE 08.

For the first time ever, NBA LIVE 08 will feature eight international teams as part of a multi-year licensing agreement with FIBA, the world governing body for basketball. The game features a number of the NBA's biggest international stars on packaging across Europe, including Tony Parker and Boris Diaw (France), Dirk Nowitzki (Germany), Pau Gasol (Spain) and Andrea Bargnani (Italy).

EA SPORTS also continues its partnership with the NBA for the second year of NBA Europe Live presented by EA SPORTS, which begins on October 1. This year's tour features the Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics and Minnesota Timberwolves in a series of training camps and exhibition games in six cities across Italy, Spain, Turkey and the UK. The inaugural NBA Europe Live drew more than 36 million viewers and 115,000 spectators in October 2006.

NBA LIVE 08, rated 3+ by PEGI and "E" (Everyone), is available on the Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, PSP, and Wii. The PC version of the game will be in stores on October 30 in North America. NBA Live 08 will be available in Europe Oct. 5 on most platforms, with the Wii and PC versions arriving Oct. 19.

Race 07 (PC)

Developed by SimBin — known for creating highly realistic racing games such as GTR, GT Legends, GTR2 and RACE — RACE 07 features more than 300 cars in nine different racing classes and includes the full 2006 and 2007 seasons of the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). RACE 07 features incredibly fast Formula cars and several racetracks never seen in a motor sports game before, such as the city circuits of Pau, Porto and Macau.

"With RACE 07, the bar has been raised for racing game realism and we carry on our tradition of releasing award winning titles such as GTR2," said Carlo Voelker, CEO of Viva Media. "With 32 tracks from all over the world, as well as several exclusive city tracks, we are delivering the intense action, challenge, and fun that fans of this genre expect."

Key Features:

• The full 2007 and 2006 seasons of the WTCC, the historic WTCC '87 class, Formula 3000, Formula BMW, the Mini Cooper Challenge, the Radical SR3 and SR4 (in various configurations), as well as the Caterham CSR200, CSR260 and CSR320 Concept
• Intense "single seater" action: on these open racecars we have developed a helmet camera as never seen before. Not only does it accurately resemble the view from inside a helmet, it also has all the visor dynamics the real fan could wish for. The visor gets dirty and can be cleaned by pulling a protective layer of plastic off, the so called "tear-off."
• 32 different tracks and variations from all over the world, including unique city tracks as well as legendary tracks such as Monza, Zandvoort, Brands Hatch and Imola
• Online World Championship functionality with rankings and leader boards
• Human-like AI opponents that behave as natural race drivers, trying to force the player into error
• Enhanced community appeal, community drivers, customized skins and league-support

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow (PSP)

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow introduces new combat mechanics and weaponry to the series, including blind-fire, the ability to use hostages as shields, and submerged missions. With a story written by celebrated author Greg Rucka (Patriot Acts, Batman, and the Queen and Country series), and music performed by international recording artist Azam Ali, who has composed and performed pieces for 300, Matrix Revolutions, and Prison Break; Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow features Hollywood-style production on the PSP handheld system.

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow contains a robust multiplayer experience allowing up to eight players to compete online in four-on-four Ad-Hoc and Infrastructure gameplay. In addition to Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch and Rogue Agent, the game features two all new gameplay modes, Sabotage and Retrieval, providing players with five multiplayer game options. Sabotage is an objective based mode where players have to work together to achieve a goal which will change from map to map, creating a new experience with every round. In Retrieval, players attempt to steal an object from the opposing team and return it to their base.

"Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow promises to live up to the high expectations following last year's IGN PSP Game of the Year, Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror," said Jeff Reese, director, software product marketing, SCEA. "Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow is an action-packed espionage thriller, which combined with the newly designed PSP, is a great gift idea for the gamers on your list."

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow finds Gabe Logan once again using a combination of stealth and "run-and-gun" gameplay, as he is called into action when a dangerous new technology is hijacked by a criminal extremist group, while facing the possibility that his long time partner, Lian Xing, is a double agent. For the first time in the Syphon Filter series, players engage in full 360 degree underwater combat and take control of new weapons, such as the bolt pistol and spear gun, in a story that takes Logan from the depths of the Indian Ocean to the deserts of the Middle East. Using the Havok Physics' engine, players have the ability to interact with barrels, boxes, and enemies using real world physics. Building upon the control configuration developed for Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror, multiple control layouts permit gamers to choose precision aiming at all times or enable the player to select a more classic style controller for easy play and target lock shooting.

Included with Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow is a demo of Syphon Filter: Combat Ops. This special preview allows players to edit multiplayer maps and share them with other PSP owners.

Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow is rated "T" for "Teen."