"The breadth and depth of our publishing portfolio are clearly represented in our E3 line-up, and we are very proud of the high caliber of our brands and products," said Luc Vanhal, President and COO, North America for VU Games. "Our cross-platform support is illustrated by our well-balanced mix of PC titles and video games for PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube and Game Boy Advance -- several of which will offer online multi-player capabilities. Additionally, many of our products shown at E3 will be available later this year in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, which further underscores our commitment to bringing gamers around the world great interactive content on multiple platforms."
VU Games' products will be on display at the company's booth (#1200) and meeting rooms located in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center.
THEATRICAL PROPERTIES
Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat
Inspired by the upcoming Universal Pictures/DreamWorks Pictures/Imagine Entertainment presentation of Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat, the interactive game will allow fans to step into the role of the mischievous Cat and interact with characters from the film like Thing 1, Thing 2 and the Fish, as well as encounter opponents created specifically for the game. Unique gameplay abilities, including the Umbrella Glide, the Hat-Shield Bounce and the Bubble Goo Gadget, help players to navigate through thirteen wild levels in a wacky Seussian world. Developed by Magenta Software for console and Digital Eclipse Software for the handheld and PC, Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat interactive game will make its multi-platform debut in the fourth quarter 2003.
The Fast And The Furious
An action-driven game, The Fast And The Furious will authentically recreate the turbo-charged world of street racing as an interactive experience featuring fully licensed vehicles on drag, street and closed circuit courses. Players will undertake more than 80 missions enabling them to earn cash, increase their street credibility and further the game's original story. The game will feature both cars and characters from the original The Fast And The Furious movie as well as Universal Pictures' upcoming theatrical sequel, 2 Fast 2 Furious, set to debut in theatres on June 6, 2003. The Fast And The Furious racing game is scheduled for release for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system in fourth quarter 2003 and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft in first quarter 2004.
The Hulk
Based on Universal Pictures' highly anticipated film version of one of Marvel Comics' most memorable and popular Super Hero series, The Hulk video game will be released on the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube and the PC. With a brand new storyline set after the events of the film, The Hulk video game will deliver gamers an incredible experience beyond the movie. The game combines visuals from the original comic book illustrations with the film's remarkable digitally created graphics and environments, along with new imagery created exclusively for the game. Players can master two types of gameplay as either Bruce Banner or The Hulk as they battle lead characters from the film, familiar enemies from the Marvel Universe or new villains created specifically for the game. With fully destructible and interactive environments, players can virtually manipulate, destroy or use anything as a weapon. With his superhuman power fueled by rage, The Hulk can smash through any physical obstacle and annihilate his foes with over 45 devastating attacks. The game is scheduled to ship to retailers in late-May 2003. In addition to being showcased at the Vivendi Universal Games booth, The Hulk will also be featured in the Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo booths at E3. All trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
TELEVISION PROPERTIES
Battlestar Galactica
Based on the universe of the classic science fiction TV series, the Battlestar Galactica interactive game is a story-driven space action-adventure that takes place at the end of the Cylon-Colonial Wars, 40 years prior to the setting of the original TV series. In the game, players will assume the role of Ensign William Adama in his critical first assignment as a pilot aboard the great warship Battlestar Galactica. It is the turning point of the war and the tragic making of a hero. Battlestar Galactica will debut on both the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft in fall 2003.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Chaos Bleeds
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Chaos Bleeds, developed by Eurocom Entertainment Software, is a third-person fighting adventure game based on the successful cult television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Just like the show, the adventure takes place at ground zero for all things vampire -- Sunnydale, California. Developed with the show's sanctioned writers as a 'lost episode' from season five, Chaos Bleeds involves an unraveling tale in which a dimensional bleed has been enabled by Pure Evil to consume humanity once and for all. It's up to Buffy and her friends to stop it all from happening ... again. Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Chaos Bleed will be available for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube in late August of 2003.
Futurama
Futurama, developed by Unique Development Studios in Sweden, is a comprehensive third-person platform action game. It features four playable characters, over twenty levels, puzzles and platform gameplay, and special combat moves all combined with the humor, character development and innovation of the highly popular and award winning television show. The gameplay and detailing have been developed in conjunction with series creator Matt Groening to ensure an authentic Futurama experience. Futurama will be available in late August of 2003 for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
The Simpsons Hit & Run
The Simpsons Hit & Run, developed by Radical Entertainment, is the hilarious mission-based driving game that features all-new out-of-the-car gameplay and the signature humor of The Simpsons set in the interactive world of Springfield. Hit & Run combines a brand new story written by award-winning The Simpsons writers and voiceovers by the original show cast for full brand authenticity. The Simpsons Hit & Run will be available in early September of 2003 for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube.
The X-Files: Resist or Serve
The X-Files: Resist or Serve, developed by Black Ops, is a true 3-D survival horror game experience that spans three original episodes created by the executive producers of The X-Files television show. In addition, The X-Files: Resist or Serve features the likenesses and authentic voiceovers from the majority of the cast, including David Duchovny (Mulder) and Gillian Anderson (Scully). The X-Files: Resist or Serve will be available in Q4 of 2003 for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
NEW INSTALLMENTS TO ORIGINAL PROPERTIES AND FRANCHISES
Crash Nitro Kart
Crash hits the track in his most fast-paced adventure yet -- Crash Nitro Kart! Kidnapped by the ruthless Emperor Velo and forced to race in his galactic coliseum, Crash must race his way to victory in order to save the Earth from destruction ... but it won't be easy, as he must compete against foes both old and new before a final showdown with Velo himself! Mixing luscious next-gen graphics and incredible gameplay with the playability and fun of classic kart-racing titles, Crash Nitro Kart is scheduled for release fourth quarter 2003 for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube and the Game Boy Advance.
Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs
In this platform action/adventure game, Spyro and his friends have inadvertently torn a hole in the fabric of space between the Rhynoc and Dragon Realms. At the command of the elusive Ripto, droves of Rhynocs are now pouring into the Dragon Realms. Spyro must help close the hole quickly before the portal and Ripto's ego grow too large and the two realms fuse together permanently. Spyro: Attack of the Rhynocs is scheduled for release on the Game Boy Advance in fourth quarter 2003.
StarCraft: Ghost
StarCraft: Ghost is a tactical-action console game set in Blizzard's epic StarCraft universe. In StarCraft: Ghost, players take the role of Nova, a lethal Ghost operative skillfully trained in the arts of espionage and tactical combat. Twenty years of ruthless physical conditioning and techno-psychological instruction have made Nova a being of terrifying potential. With the help of a determined group of allies, players follow a series of story-driven missions, engaging in a deadly mix of planetary battles and dangerous solo operations. To complete their mission objectives, players must execute intelligent tactical decisions while mastering an advanced arsenal of sophisticated weaponry. StarCraft: Ghost is currently under development and is scheduled for a worldwide release on multiple console systems.
Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne
Following in the tradition of previous Blizzard expansion sets, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne provides gamers with a vast new chapter in the epic Warcraft saga. In the single-player campaign, players revisit the war-torn world of Azeroth. Several months have passed since Archimonde and the Burning Legion were defeated at the battle of Mount Hyjal, yet a new threat has arisen throughout the land. Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne for the PC is currently slated for worldwide release in the summer of 2003.
World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft is a massively multiplayer, online role-playing game set in the rich fiction of Blizzard's Warcraft universe. Featuring bold 3D graphics and deep, immersive gameplay, World of Warcraft will allow thousands of players to adventure together in this epic world and will provide them with a new, in-depth perspective on familiar lands, former battlefields, and heroes from the legendary universe. In addition, World of Warcraft will introduce new, uncharted territories and foes never before seen by followers of the series. A release date for World of Warcraft has not been announced.
J.R.R. TOLKIEN RELEASES
The Hobbit
The Hobbit is a third-person action-adventure game set in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. In the game, players take the persona of Bilbo Baggins, an unassuming Hobbit who has been unwittingly thrust into an epic adventure. In the game, players explore the magical world of Middle-earth where they'll need to jump gaping chasms, climb treacherous mountains, solve mind-bending puzzles and battle hordes of enemies just to survive. They'll also meet enchanting Elves, battle-ready Dwarves, a powerful Wizard, massive Trolls, bloodthirsty Goblins, and more as they traverse from the peaceful lands of the Shire to the harrowing forests of Mirkwood. The Hobbit will be released this Fall on all major platforms, including PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance and the PC.
The Lord of the Rings: The Treason of Isengard
The Lord of the Rings: The Treason of Isengard is an action-adventure game for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. The game's title derives from J.R.R. Tolkien's original subtitle for the first part of this segment of "The Lord of the Rings" story and is spoken in the books by Gandalf the wizard who describes Saruman's terrible betrayal saying: "Nothing that we have endured of late has seemed so grievous as the treason of Isengard." By utilizing the author's original title, the game promotes Tolkien's vision and supports VU Games' license to create official games based on Tolkien's literary works. The Lord of the Rings: The Treason of Isengard is scheduled for release in fall 2003.
The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring
The quest to destroy the One Ring continues in The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring, a Real-Time Strategy game based on The Lord of the Rings saga. Massive battles will erupt as the peoples of Middle-earth fight for control of Tolkien's World. Play as the forces of good and valiantly fight for the One Ring's destruction or play as the forces of evil to claim control over Middle-earth forever. The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring will be available in first quarter 2004 for the PC.
NEW BRANDS
Cold Winter
Cold Winter is an action first-person shooter set in a dark world of global espionage, full of international intrigue, action and suspense. This story of a disavowed secret agent unfolds through three different threads and takes place in eight distinct environments that are as gritty as they are beautiful. Thirteen single player missions are woven into the three story threads of the game; Cold Winter will also incorporate a variety of immersive environments, from the dank hopelessness of a Chinese prison, to the exotic beauty of cities like Cairo and Hong Kong. Cold Winter will be available on both the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. The title is slated to ship to retail in the third quarter of 2004. Cold Winter is not yet concept approved by Sony Computer Entertainment America.
Judge Dredd: Dredd Vs. Death
Judge Dredd: Dredd Vs. Death is an intense first-person shooter set in the post-apocalyptic megalopolis of Mega-City One. This 22nd century melting pot is home to 400 million citizens, every one a potential criminal, and the only thing preventing the city from descending into complete anarchy is the group of elite law enforcers known as the Judges. The player takes the role of Judge Dredd as he patrols the overcrowded streets of the city, arresting lawbreakers and dealing with the breakdown of law and order, as vampires, the undead and the Dark Judges are let loose onto an unsuspecting population. Judge Dredd: Dredd Vs. Death is being developed for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system, Xbox video game system, Nintendo GameCube and PC, and is planned for release in the second-half of 2003. Judge Dredd: Dredd Vs. Death is not yet concept approved by Sony Computer Entertainment America.
Metal Arms: Glitch In The System
Metal Arms: Glitch In The System is a third-person shooter that combines fast-paced action, several varied gameplay types and hilarious undertones, all set on a distant planet inhabited exclusively by robots. As the adventure unfolds, players will explore fascinating regions of this robot planet, drive a vast array of vehicles, gain powerful weapon upgrades, and defeat enemies to ensure the survival of the Droid race. The game's humorous tone and unique robotic look ensure a truly original game. Metal Arms: Glitch In The System will be available in the fourth quarter of 2003 for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft and Nintendo GameCube.
Men of Valor: Vietnam
Men of Valor: Vietnam is a historical first-person shooter that portrays infantry combat during the Vietnam War. Combining the latest Unreal technology with the gameplay expertise of 2015, Men of Valor transports the player to the humid jungles of Southeast Asia in the most controversial conflict of the modern era. Men of Valor: Vietnam will be available in 2004 for the PC and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
FRANCHISE-BASED RELEASES AND SERIES EXPANSIONS
Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance II
Set in the Forgotten Realms world, the most popular Dungeons & Dragons campaign setting, Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance II will use the 3rd Edition Dungeons & Dragons rules set. The game will feature more monsters, graphically stunning environments and five new and unique customizable player characters to choose from, hidden areas to explore, as well as a new item creation system that will allow players to create their own ultimate magical artifacts. This unique action/role-playing game will be released for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance II is scheduled to be available at retail for holiday 2003.
Counter-Strike: Condition Zero
Counter-Strike: Condition Zero, co-produced by Valve and Ritual, advances this award-winning series by introducing single-player action and special enhancements for online play and is a tactical action game that challenges you to compete with and against cunning computerized opponents in mission-based campaigns across the globe. Powered by an enhanced Half-Life engine, Counter-Strike: Condition Zero introduces new game technologies including highly detailed models; atmospheric enhancements, such as snow and rain; and more dynamic special effects -- taking the #1 online action game into new territory. Counter-Strike: Condition Zero for the PC is slated for release in Q3 of 2003.
Dark Age of Camelot: Trials of Atlantis
Dark Age of Camelot: Trials of Atlantis, the latest expansion pack to the acclaimed Dark Age of Camelot MMORPG, is designed around a series of exhilarating trials available to players of all Realms. Trials of Atlantis will challenge high level players to explore and survive in an all-new underwater domain. Players will be engaged with a new Master leveling system as well as new quests. 3 new races and 20 new zones are introduced as well as a new graphics engine that will deliver sophisticated underwater characters, environments & combat in stunning detail. Dark Age of Camelot: Trials of Atlantis will be released for the PC in the Q4 2003.
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel
Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel is a gritty and darkly humorous third person action adventure game that transports players into the post-apocalyptic wasteland of the highly acclaimed and successful Fallout PC franchise. Utilizing a combination of intense combat strategies integrating melee, ranged weapons and explosives, one to two players can assume membership in The Brotherhood of Steel, warriors determined to bring their own sense of order to a nuked-out wasteland. Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel will be released this fall for the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system and the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
Ground Control 2: Operation Exodus
Ground Control 2: Operation Exodus is the long-anticipated sequel to the innovative and award-winning 3D action-RTS title from 2000. The year is now 2741 and our hero, Captain Jacob Angelus, finds himself at the center of a war between the Northern Star Alliance and the vicious Terran Empire. At his disposal are huge combat dropships, battle-hardened infantry, armored vehicles, powerful tanks and an assortment of air units. Well-balanced strategic and tactical control is imperative to mission success. Prepare for battle in early 2004!
Homeworld 2
Homeworld 2 is the massive sequel to 1999's Game of the Year. Years after the Higarans reclaimed their Homeworld, there is still no peace. A new war, a prophecy, and a deadly new enemy threaten to make the recent journey home for nothing. With new giant space hulks, nebulae, and gas clouds, Homeworld 2 renders the most beautiful views of outer space ever seen in a game. In addition to the epic single player experience, Homeworld 2 allows competition with five other players via a LAN or over the Internet. Homeworld 2 will support mod groups by making tools to create your own content available via download from www.homeworld2.com . Homeworld 2 is scheduled for release in the summer of 2003 for the PC.
Hoyle Majestic Chess
Offering new and original features to entice beginners and challenge experienced players, Hoyle Majestic Chess is a chess simulation game developed by the experienced team at Fluent Entertainment. The unique adventure component of Hoyle Majestic Chess -- "Chess Adventure" -- introduces the rules and strategies of chess to the novice and intermediate player through a story-driven quest. For the hardcore chess player, Hoyle Majestic Chess will feature a world-class chess "engine," designed by Dave Kittinger, one of the top chess engine writers in the world. Hoyle Majestic Chess is scheduled to ship this July for the PC.
Hunter: The Reckoning Redeemer
Based on the gothic world of White Wolf's pen and paper role-playing games, Hunter: The Reckoning is fueled with more intense action than the original. An all-new character joins the original team of four to destroy hordes of new supernatural enemies in never before seen areas. Single or multi-player battles will be waged with the addition of new weapons, power ups, edges (spells) and Hunter-specific combat moves. Hunter: The Reckoning Redeemer is scheduled for release in the fall of 2003 for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
Hunter: The Reckoning Wayward
Hunter: The Reckoning Wayward continues the story of the successful action adventure franchise Hunter: The Reckoning. High-speed action combined with top-notch graphics translate the dark fantasy world of the White Wolf role-playing game and bring the essence of the game to life, fully submerging the player into the realm of The World of Darkness. Wayward comes to the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system in Summer 2003 with an all-new story, game-play features, weapons and terrifying monsters.
Lords of the Realm III
Lords of the Realm III (Lords 3) is a real-time strategy game of historic medieval conquest that spans castle building, siege, politics, religion, and conquest. The game is set in the Middle Ages, between 850 AD and 1350 AD, and features authentic castle designs and characters. Various scenarios and campaigns encompass the British Isles, Germany, France, Normandy, Brittany, Flanders and Denmark. Extending the medieval world beyond combat, Lords 3 takes into account the powerful clergy and merchant classes of the time, which are important factions in the player's quest to become King. Lords of the Realm III will be available in Fall 2003 on the PC.
Outlaw Volleyball
"Spike or Die" is the battle cry in this volleyball free-for-all. Choose your team, choose your court, choose your bikini and serve up the attitude. Scantily-clad babes and seriously twisted dudes bring their famous "Outlaw" vibe onto the court as they bump, set and spike and throw punches on their way to total victory. Outlaw Volleyball provides fast, furious and uncouth action via Xbox Live so anyone and everyone can experience the outrageous humor and fantastic gameplay that the "Outlaw" gang is known for. Outlaw Volleyball is scheduled for release in June of 2003 for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft.
SWAT: Global Strike Team
SWAT: Global Strike Team is a squad-based FPS that takes the player to hot spots all over the world during five chapters (21 missions) linked by a powerful storyline. Gamers can also team-up with a friend and battle through 10 multiplayer only co-op missions. Gamers can even use the optional microphone attachment to issue instructions to their teammates while yelling compliance commands at suspects. SWAT: GST is scheduled to ship in fall of 2003 for the Xbox video game system from Microsoft and PlayStation2 computer entertainment system.