Phantasy Star Online: Blue Burst introduces server-based storage of player data thereby freeing the players from being confined to playing from any single PC/location. New team system, enhanced character graphics, and better game controls are some of the other improvements introduced in the continuing evolution of PSO universe. PSO-BB game client software will be downloadable free of charge from servers on the Internet.

Valve announced today that it is planning on releasing de_port and de_inferno next week. Along with the two new maps, an updated version of the current CT model will be included. Valve will of course be present at the upcoming E3 expo where Half-Life 2 Xbox will be shown in the Xbox area of Microsoft’s booth. Meanwhile Half-Life 2: Lost Coast, the new single-player level created to introduce High-Dynamic Range (HDR) lighting to the Source engine, is slated to appear in the Games for Windows area at the show.

ECHO: Secrets of the Lost Cavern lets you delve into a world of exploration and intrigue as you embark on a quest filled with puzzles and mystery. Use your wits and powers of observation to survive the vast wilderness as your journey leads you to one of mankind’s forgotten wonders.

Europe 1942. These are desperate hours for Allied forces as the Nazi war machine rages across a devastated European landscape. You are US Army Lieutenant William Holt, hand-picked by William “Wild Bill” Donovan to be the first field agent of the newly formed Office of Strategic Services­the OSS. Medal of Honor European Assault makes you the driving force in the struggle to liberate Europe.

Dreamcatcher let us know that Heuristic Park is working on the first patch for its action/RPG Dungeon Lords. The developers are currently working on a patch to update a few of the issues brought to their attention on the message boards, such as : various gameplay tweaks, bug fixes, UI screen resolution issue and some multiplayer issues. The patch is expect Monday/Tuesday, and of course we will have it available on our fileserver network.

Pariah focuses on a robust immersive storyline that weaves survival elements into the traditional run-and-gun style of first-person action games. Digital Extremes has released the first patch bringing your retail game to v1.01 and addresses a problem where the game would not load when using Windows 98 or Windows ME. Read more for download links ...

Well here we have it. Earlier this week Microsoft head honcho Bill Gates himself let slip that the Xbox sequel would be coming "this year," which has now been further narrowed down by an MTV on-air schedule advertising the Xbox 360 unveiling next week. "This special highlights the exciting new generation of XBOX. Packages include: Tours of the design labs Interviews with the designers Behind-the-scenes and inside scoop Never-before-seen footage of new videogames. Trailers of the newest games that are due out in November for the new XBOX." We can further confirm this as last week a developer, working on an Xbox 360 launch title, said his product would ship in November. Time to get excited!

Smart Bomb is an intense, adrenaline pumping, explosive experience for the PSP handheld! As a member of the Bomb Disposal Unit (B.D.U.), you are tasked with diffusing a highly intricate series of bombs which have been planted in various locations around the world. With over 150 different 3D puzzles, Smart Bomb will test your concentration, wit, and problem solving skills.

Nexuiz is a 3D deathmatch game that is simply first person shooting reduced to the very basics with perfect weapon balancing. With its very intense and fast gameplay, it will hook the user in. Nexuiz uses such technology as curved surfaces with its detailed maps, bumpmapping, realtime shadows, 64 player support, and an advanced model format. Read more for some new screens ...

Activision is not only working on a Call of Duty sequel for the PC, but also on a sequel to last years Call of Duty: Finest Hour. Call of Duty 2: The Big Red One will be set during World War 2, has a tentative holiday season release date. Previously Activision mentioned it would be showing "two" new Call of Duty products, so besides the CoD2 for PC, this may be the second one. Here are the first screens ...