Vivendi Universal Games today announced that Crash Bandicoot, one of the top character-based franchises in video game history has returned to the racetrack, as its newest title, Crash Nitro Kart, ships to retail stores today. Showcasing beautiful next generation graphics, Crash Nitro Kart combines the best elements of classic kart-racing games by offering an excellent combination of gameplay, speed, characters, weapons and story. Developed by Albany, NY-based studio, Vicarious Visions, Crash Nitro Kart is available on PS2, Xbox, GameCube and Game Boy Advance video game system.

Atari today announced that it has shipped Terminator3: Rise of the Machines for the PlayStation2, Xbox and GBA, to retail stores nationwide. After delivering a $430 million summer blockbuster film in collaboration with Intermedia, IMF, C2 Pictures, and Columbia TriStar International, Arnold Schwarzenegger makes his first-ever video game appearance in Atari’s Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines for the next-generation game consoles due for release on November 11, 2003.

The Hobbit, based on J.R.R. Tolkien's literary masterpiece -- the classic prequel to The Lord of The Rings series which has been translated into 26 languages and has sold over 75 million copies worldwide -- ships today, announced Vivendi Universal Games. Featuring stunning graphics, The Hobbit showcases deep action/combat systems combined with the best elements of stealth, role-playing and puzzle solving. Players will lead the brave Bilbo Baggins on an epic journey throughout the mythical world of Middle-earth to ultimately confront Smaug the Dragon. The Hobbit is available on PS2, Xbox and GameCube(developed by Inevitable Entertainment); GBA (developed by Saffire) and PC (developed by Amaze Entertainment).

Strategy First is pleased to announce that the next chapter in the award-winning Disciples series, the stand-alone expansion pack titled Disciples II: Rise of the Elves has gone gold. The Disciples series has sold close to 400,000 copies worldwide and has received countless awards for its graphics, gameplay and unique twist on the fantasy strategy genre. Disciples II: Rise of the Elves will ship to retail stores on November 20th, 2003 with a SRP of $29.99 and an ESRB of T for TEEN.

"Nightshade" is the official name for the upcoming PS2 title formerly known as "Kunoichi" (it remains "Kunoichi" in Japan) as well as the release of new screenshots. Players take on the role of the sexy and dangerous female ninja Hibana as she battles legions of demonic foes with unlimited combo attacks and powerful ninja magic. Developed by SEGA's Overworks studio, "Nightshade" is slated to be released in early Q1 04. Read more for details and screens ...

Put on your driving gloves, grab that radio control and jump right into action with 'RC Squad Land Machines'! Select from a great mix of realistic Electric or Fuel RC-Vehicles such as Monster Trucks, on/off Road Buggies, ATV's to even Hover-Crafts to participate in many styles of gripping gameplay. Read more to check out a new in game footage trailer ...

"Unreal Tournament 2004 is the next evolution of the greatest competitive computer game ever created," said Jean-Philippe Agati, senior vice president and general manager of Atari's Los Angeles studio. "The addition of new modes, mods and maps as well as the controllable land-, air- and space-based vehicles, means Unreal fans are getting an entirely new experience featuring devastating vehicular combat and wide scale warfare." Check out some new screens ...

Object Software has released a new update patch/expansion pack for the online version of Strategy First's RPG Prince Of Qin. This "Overlord of Conquerors" expansion prominently features Xiang Yu, the famous Chu General who fought a bitter war against the Qin Dynasty and then against Liu Bang for the throne of China. POQ Online will be greatly enhanced with new characters, enemies, items and locations. This major upgrade inclusive of the Expansion Pack will patch any version of your Prince of Qin Online client to v1.130E... Read more for details & download links ...

Shadowbane: The Rise of Chaos features new high-level content, and a new race, the Nephilim, a chaotic fusion of demon and man that has arisen from the forces of darkness. In addition, the expansion provides new character classes, disciplines, an additional character slot, two new macro zones, and enhanced environmental graphics. Shadowbane: The Rise of Chaos is being designed and developed by Wolfpack Studios, based in Austin, Texas. Read more for some new screens ...