Not wanting to be left out, Microsoft announced it was awarded the Emmy for Pioneering Work in Near and Real-Time Fully Programmable Shading Via Modern Graphics Processors for its DirectX technology, at the 58th Annual Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards, on Monday, January 8th at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas.

In Pirates! you are a 17th century Caribbean Pirate Captain trying to become the most revered and feared pirate in history - exploring high seas and exotic ports, overtaking enemies in fierce naval battles, engaging in duels and attempting to seize valuable booty.

Last Agust Capcom announced it has sold 500k units within the first 2 weeks, and now a few months later the success story continues as it has shipped over 1 million copies worldwide. Capcom also hints at a possible sequel saying it has "established a franchise for years to come."

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas will introduce a new interactive American Idol attraction, featuring Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol, that will allow the public to perform in front of wax figures of Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest, in its ON STAGE area, just like contestants on the LIVE show.

In 300: March to Glory, based on Warner Bros. Pictures' motion picture, players take on the role of King Leonidas, who leads the brave 300 Spartans against Xerxes and his massive Persian army in a battle to determine the very fate of western civilization.

Strategy First and Glyphic Entertainment announce the signing of Warlords Nintendo DS. This classic turn-base strategy title compliments Disciples II DS, Jagged Alliance 2 which are also under development.

In Gods & Heroes you become a classic hero of the ancient world, born of immortal blood. As a scion of the gods, you will have the opportunity to pursue his destiny through a series of Epic Quests that will span all levels of gameplay, over time commanding amazing God Powers and acquiring famous weapons and treasure of myth. In case you missed yesterday's screens and trailer, here are some more ...

Europa Universalis III delves deeply into the areas of exploration, trade, warfare and diplomacy and is an epic strategy game where players take control of a nation and guide it through the ages to become a great global empire.

Fearless Mafia hitman Jackie Estacado is part of the Franchetti crime family helmed by vicious cousin Paulie. On the eve of his 21st birthday, Jackie is suddenly possessed by the terrifying and spectacular powers of the Darkness.

As promised, Microsoft has released the first mappack for Epic's action game Gears of War. Sponsored by the Discovery Channel's new show Future Weapons, the 2 free multiplayer maps Raven Down and Old Bones weigh in at 98mb. There is also a Map Pack 1 Theme and an introductory video by CliffyB available when you log onto Xbox Live.