Pirates is broadband only, with high-end hardware specifications for graphics -- a GeForce 3 or better is required in at least a 1GHz machine, and the game is optimized for the latest DirectX 9.0-class cards. Pirates is being published on-line directly to gamers using Valve's new Steam technology, the same delivery system used by Half-Life 2 and Counterstrike 2.

Call of Duty 2 is an all new epic title which delivers an unparalleled portrayal of the chaos and intensity that was World War II. Call of Duty 2 is powered by a proprietary new engine featuring striking new visuals, advanced A.I. technology, the most realistic squad combat and explosive action in new historic campaigns. Read more to check out one new screen, and info on some of the military personel contributing to the historical accuracy of the game.

Epic Games today announced that it has completed the purchase of the Reality Engine from Artificial Studios and hired its founder, and lead engine programmer, Tim Johnson. Tim will join the Unreal Engine 3 development team effective immediately and be part of Epic's presence at the E3 in Los Angeles, California next week.

Perpetual Entertainment, currently working on two MMO's Gods and Heroes: Rome Rising and Star Trek Online, announced today the addition of Daron Stinnett to the Star Trek Online team as its Executive Producer.

Invictus Games and Project Three today announced that Cross Racing Championship 2005 has reached gold status. CRC 2005 is the most accurate re-creation of real life Autocross, Rally Cross, Off-Road, Dirt track, Rallying, Road Racing and Circuit Racing seen to date. The game allows the player to experience the thrills of high-speed on and off road racing across vast open terrains. The player can contest over 65 races across six distinct environments, ranging from icy mountainous regions and lush countryside to parched desert areas and beaches.

What would happen if Hitler had been assassinated early on in WWII and the German war engine came under control of a new regime? Digital Reality and CDV aim to answer that question in War Front: Turning Point, bringing gamers an "alternate reality" strategy game. Gamers will be exposed to a whole new WWII timeline, new battles and a variety of secret and experimental weapons. Eye-popping graphics and a refreshing plot will keep gamers pinned to their PCs as they attempt to alter or ensure the historical outcome of World War II.

Far Cry Instincts is a technically advanced gaming experience built from the ground up using the kind of cutting-edge technology that Far Cry fans will recognize from the PC title. Far Cry Instincts will ship for consoles in September 2005. Read more for new screens or download the trailer ...

Hip Games today revealed the line-up for this year's E3 in Los Angeles, California on May 18-20, 2005. Hip will be showing off a strong product portfolio including City of the Dead, Rugby Challenge 2006, Jackie Chan Adventures, Fear Factor: Unleashed, and previously unannounced titles, Playboy the Mansion: Private Party, Call of Cthulhu: Destiny's End Ghost Wars and Playboy. Read more for details ...

SCAR: Squadra Corse Alfa Romeo, licensed by Alfa Romeo and developed by Milestone, is a stunning racing simulation which combines both realistic car physics, and vibrant graphics together with classic Role Playing Game elements to become the first 'CARPG' ever developed.

Matrix Games and X1 Software announced today that Banzai!, their newest IL-2 Sturmovik series expansion (for Pacific Fighters), is now available for purchase from the Matrix Games store, either as a digital download or you can have a boxed game shipped to your door. Banzai! requires that Pacific Fighters be installed to function. See below for details.