Saturday 15 March 2008
Gears of War Hits 5 Million in Sales for the Xbox 360
Epic Games' entry into the console game space in a big way. First legitimate competitive 3rd person shooter of significance and possibly the greatest graphics to ever grace the screen of a television plugged into a console. The game is definitely gory and violent with lots of blood and splatter involved.
The story is centered around a group of soldiers or 'Gears' that are engaged in a series of missions fighting their way through hordes of the Locust, a race of creatures that emerge from under ground to battle the humans of the planet Sera. You take the leadership of this group of Gears as Marcus Fenix and the whole campaign is centered around squad combat and the use of cover and flanking to a significant extent.
Definitely one of the most innovative (if not most) shooters of recent years, the decision to with a 3rd person perspective and the implementation of a cover system change the mechanics of the game from your average shooter and really add a lot to the experience.
The campaign component of the game is roughly 5-8 hours long and has both single player, two player offline co-op and online 2 player co-op. Playing with someone else through the campaign makes it a much funner experience and brings the squad combat to the forefront even more than the game normally does.
The multiplayer game is 4 on 4 multiplayer with 4 modes: Warzone (team deathmatch), Execution (team deathmatch with the ability to revive fallen comrades for a short time), Assassination (killing the other team's designated leader) and Annex (king of the hill).
Except for Annex, the multiplayer modes don't have timed respawns like other shooters do. Essentially each round is a battle of its own. This makes for a very frantic and competitive series of rounds where each player's role is maximized beacause of the small teams.
Online downloadable content has been added and more is on the way in the form of maps and new modes (Annex was added as a downloadable) so the game has continually improving online experience.
With some of the best visuals in any game ever and really interesting gameplay mechanics, good single player levels and very addictive and competitive multiplayer game, this is a must for every 360 owner who isn't turned off by the violence.
super street fighter ii turbo hd remix Capcom Explain Why There's No PS3 SFII HD Beta
360 owners get access to the SFII HD beta when they pick up Commando 3. PS3 owners don't. That kind of discrepancy leads to questions, which left unanswered lead to thinking, then a wacky hypothesis, then most likely an ill-informed internet forum rant. Seeking to head that kind of rant off at the pass, Capcom have explained just why PS3 owners won't be getting access to the beta, listing reasons such as a finite number of resources, the fact a double-test would have pushed the actual game's release back months and the near-impossibility of running a cross-platform beta test. All very legitimate, all very sensible. None as sensible as this, though: this is a beta test. Not a demo. As Capcom's Seth Killian explains, "There is code parity across the two and any issues found in 360 will be fixed in PS3".
GTA IV Online Multiplayer: 15 Modes, 16 Player Support
Death Match will feature rocket launchers.
The host of the match sets the rules for each game type. In “Race” and “GTA Race,” the host chooses the vehicles and number of laps. In “Deathmatch” and “Team Death Match,” the host chooses the weapons, the number of pedestrians, the amount of traffic, even if the police will sneak in or not.
You can customize your character in multiplayer, from sex and race to hair and clothes.
PlayStation Revista Oficial played a death match game where all players had rocket launchers and half the city was blown away.
In “Mafiya Work” and “Team Mafiya Work,” each player becomes a Kenny Petrovic's assassin that competes against the other users. The goal is to complete Petrovic's orders (issued via a mobile phone) before the other players.
In “Race” and “GTA Race,” you can use fire weapons to neutralize your rivals and steal a car in case yours gets busted.
In “Cops N Crooks,” you’ll be able to play cops and robbers, but in a wild way. One team plays as criminals on the run while the other team plays as the cops, whose mission is to kill the head of the criminal band. To make things even more interesting, cops can see the location of the criminals on their GPS, so criminals never know where or when police will sneak in. Of all the game types played by PlayStation Revista Oficial, “Cops N Crooks” was the most entertaining one.
In “Hangman’s NOOSE,” you’ll play co-op and this game type is similar to the VIP escort game mode found in Counter-Strike.
The game modes are:
Deathmatch
Team Deathmatch
Hangman's NOOSE
Mafiya Work
Team Mafiya Work
Cops N Crooks
Race
GTA Race
Car Jack City
Bomb da Base
Bomb da Base II
Turf War
Deal Breaker
Free Mode
????
The host of the match sets the rules for each game type. In “Race” and “GTA Race,” the host chooses the vehicles and number of laps. In “Deathmatch” and “Team Death Match,” the host chooses the weapons, the number of pedestrians, the amount of traffic, even if the police will sneak in or not.
You can customize your character in multiplayer, from sex and race to hair and clothes.
PlayStation Revista Oficial played a death match game where all players had rocket launchers and half the city was blown away.
In “Mafiya Work” and “Team Mafiya Work,” each player becomes a Kenny Petrovic's assassin that competes against the other users. The goal is to complete Petrovic's orders (issued via a mobile phone) before the other players.
In “Race” and “GTA Race,” you can use fire weapons to neutralize your rivals and steal a car in case yours gets busted.
In “Cops N Crooks,” you’ll be able to play cops and robbers, but in a wild way. One team plays as criminals on the run while the other team plays as the cops, whose mission is to kill the head of the criminal band. To make things even more interesting, cops can see the location of the criminals on their GPS, so criminals never know where or when police will sneak in. Of all the game types played by PlayStation Revista Oficial, “Cops N Crooks” was the most entertaining one.
In “Hangman’s NOOSE,” you’ll play co-op and this game type is similar to the VIP escort game mode found in Counter-Strike.
The game modes are:
Deathmatch
Team Deathmatch
Hangman's NOOSE
Mafiya Work
Team Mafiya Work
Cops N Crooks
Race
GTA Race
Car Jack City
Bomb da Base
Bomb da Base II
Turf War
Deal Breaker
Free Mode
????
Friday 14 March 2008
Mass Effect 2 will blow people away
BioWare senior manager teases with Mass Effect 2 details.
Speaking to VideoGamer.com at EA's Guildford HQ yesterday, BioWare's Senior Manager Matt Atwood shed some light on Mass Effect 2, teasing us with how brilliant the game will be.
"How will it correlate to Mass Effect, the original? There's a lot of really exciting answers to that question. I think that people are going to be blown away," said Atwood. "I've learned some of the things. I don't mean to tease people. The teams are just so brilliant and the story writing is so good that straight out from the beginning of Mass Effect 2, people are going to be in awe."
And what about the story of the second game? Atwood confirmed that Mass Effect 2 would continue the story and that it won't be a prequel.
"The story was always written as an arc, so they are meant to stand alone as great games to play individually, but even better if you play them all, because you get the entire experience, and there are quite a few twists - there'll be quite a few things that people will not expect."
Gamers wanting to know how your crew and characters will be carried over to the sequel will have to wait a little longer for the info, but Atwood did reassure us that BioWare is working on it.
"As far as keeping your crew, and keeping your characters, and bringing them into Mass Effect 2, I don't want to get that specific with regards to what will happen, but I will tell you that things you did and people you interacted with in Mass Effect... you may very well meet up with them again, whether it be the main character or other characters. Other characters take on more significant roles and there's plenty of folks you haven't met yet."
Speaking to VideoGamer.com at EA's Guildford HQ yesterday, BioWare's Senior Manager Matt Atwood shed some light on Mass Effect 2, teasing us with how brilliant the game will be.
"How will it correlate to Mass Effect, the original? There's a lot of really exciting answers to that question. I think that people are going to be blown away," said Atwood. "I've learned some of the things. I don't mean to tease people. The teams are just so brilliant and the story writing is so good that straight out from the beginning of Mass Effect 2, people are going to be in awe."
And what about the story of the second game? Atwood confirmed that Mass Effect 2 would continue the story and that it won't be a prequel.
"The story was always written as an arc, so they are meant to stand alone as great games to play individually, but even better if you play them all, because you get the entire experience, and there are quite a few twists - there'll be quite a few things that people will not expect."
Gamers wanting to know how your crew and characters will be carried over to the sequel will have to wait a little longer for the info, but Atwood did reassure us that BioWare is working on it.
"As far as keeping your crew, and keeping your characters, and bringing them into Mass Effect 2, I don't want to get that specific with regards to what will happen, but I will tell you that things you did and people you interacted with in Mass Effect... you may very well meet up with them again, whether it be the main character or other characters. Other characters take on more significant roles and there's plenty of folks you haven't met yet."
Mass Effect 2 to Be an Xbox 360 Exclusive
After EA acquired BioWare, the future of Mass Effect was uncertain and once Microsoft confirmed it no longer owns the publishing rights of the series, every Mass Effect fan thought they will eventually see the game on the PlayStation 3. Well, that won't be the case. Speaking to CVG, BioWare senior manager Matt Atwood revealed that the sequel will definitely be an Xbox 360 exclusive and, like the first game, it may eventually be released on PC. "I believe we'll be Xbox 360 exclusive for at least a short period of time," Atwood told CVG. Then he added: "I think you'll see a PC version not too far away."
360 bundle madness grips retail
Flurry of advertising hits national press as price war takes hold following 360 cut
Multiple retailers are offering Xbox 360 bundle deals to coincide with the today's price drop.
Several of these offers are promoted in today’s Metro newspaper, which includes deals from Zavvi, Argos and Blockbuster.
Zavvi is offering an Xbox 360 Pro, with copies of Assassin’s Creed, Lost Odyssey and Halo 3, for just £210.
Blockbuster is promoting a deal for Xbox 360 Arcade, which includes a new game (Turning Point: Fall of Liberty, Army of Two or FIFA Street) for £169.99,
Finally Argos is offering two free games (Forza Motorsport 2 and Viva Pinata) with any 360 console.
Microsoft announced earlier this week that the Xbox 360 price was to fall, with the Arcade edition priced at £159.99, the Pro version at £199.99 and the Elite console coming in at £249.99.
Ubisoft Announces Special Legacy Edition GRAW 2
Today Ubisoft, one of the world’s largest video game publishers, announced that it would release a special Legacy Edition for Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter ® 2, the follow up to the massively popular squad-based action franchise, and next generation smash hit of 2006.This exciting new Legacy Edition will include the original game, and an additional disk containing all the GRAW 2 downloadable packs available on Xbox Live to date! It includes:- 32 additional maps, a combination of new maps and best of maps!- New exciting game modes and a large variety of exclusive ground-breaking missions- Exclusive additional weapons that enrich the tactical possibilities in Single PlayerTom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter ® 2 Legacy Edition is scheduled for release on the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft in April 2008 and will be available in stores at Mid-Price
DICE announces multiplayer beta for Xbox 360's Battlefield: Bad Company
DICE has announced a multiplayer beta for the Xbox 360 version of Battlefield: Bad Company. The beta will start on March 17, while the game will be available come June. Check the full article for details on where to get a beta key.
by: Michael Ogunnubi
March 13, 2008
Electronic Arts studio DICE has announced the multiplayer beta test for the Xbox 360 version of Battlefield: Bad Company. In the beta, gamers can battle through two different maps and try out the game's new infantry kits and vehicles. IGN Founders’ Club and IGN Insider will be offering beta keys to both members and the general public in North America and Europe. Beta keys can also be obtained from IGN.com and its affiliated websites including GameSpy, TeamXbox, Planet Battlefield and Voodoo Extreme.
by: Michael Ogunnubi
March 13, 2008
Electronic Arts studio DICE has announced the multiplayer beta test for the Xbox 360 version of Battlefield: Bad Company. In the beta, gamers can battle through two different maps and try out the game's new infantry kits and vehicles. IGN Founders’ Club and IGN Insider will be offering beta keys to both members and the general public in North America and Europe. Beta keys can also be obtained from IGN.com and its affiliated websites including GameSpy, TeamXbox, Planet Battlefield and Voodoo Extreme.
Thursday 13 March 2008
Xbox: 'We can rule summer'
European boss Chris Lewis says he "wouldn't change places with any other platform holder" after price cut.
Tomorrow’s price drop on all three Xbox 360 SKUs will give the console the boost it needs to rule the next-gen battle this summer, Microsoft has told MCV.The platform holder has made a clear attempt to lure in famillies with the cuts, which see its Arcade model retail for £159.99 (€199.99). “I genuinely wouldn’t change places with any other platform holder right now,” said Euro Xbox boss Chris Lewis.
Tomorrow’s price drop on all three Xbox 360 SKUs will give the console the boost it needs to rule the next-gen battle this summer, Microsoft has told MCV.The platform holder has made a clear attempt to lure in famillies with the cuts, which see its Arcade model retail for £159.99 (€199.99). “I genuinely wouldn’t change places with any other platform holder right now,” said Euro Xbox boss Chris Lewis.
We’re very confident – not only in terms of the price cut but also in terms of what content is coming this summer and later this year."The race is far from over. We've always had a deliberate strategy that we had to secure the core gamers first. Having done so in a way that we're proud of, we now have a real appetite to appeal to the mass market."
Lost Planet: Colonies Edition Announced
Capcom®, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, today announced that Lost Planet™: Extreme Condition COLONIES EDITION is in development for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft as well as a version for Windows-based PCs that will support Games for Windows – LIVE®. Scheduled for Platinum Hits release this June in North America, Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION extends the acclaimed Lost Planet experience by delivering fresh new content and gameplay options, as well as online cross-platform play between both the Xbox 360 and Windows-based PCs using Xbox LIVE and Games for Windows - LIVE. Both SKUs of the game will offer excellent value, with the Xbox 360 version achieving Platinum Hits status. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and will be released on both Windows PCs and Xbox 360 on May 27 for the Platinum Hits value price of $29.99. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION provides the same compelling single player experience found in the original Lost Planet: Extreme Condition, with the addition of three new modes. In Score Attack, all enemies have points assigned to them and the score awarded will change depending on how they are defeated, with skilled marksmen being rewarded. For those who thrive on a challenge, Trial Battle Mode delivers, pitting players against all of the game’s bosses, one after another. Players of both Score Attack and Trial Battle modes will be able to compare their skills and compete for bragging rights via the online ranking system. Finally things get a little crazy with Off Limit Mode which lets players take on Lost Planet’s harsh environments and enemies with over-the-top, super-charged weapons and a powered-up grappling hook.
Click here to view all screenshots Fans of multiplayer action will not be disappointed as Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION allows them to enjoy a host of new maps, characters, weapons and gameplay modes. Players turn poacher as they attempt to steal opponents’ alien Akrid eggs in a number of individual and team play modes, while the addition of VS Annihilator Mode assigns one robotic Vital Suit to each team, which must be defended at all cost. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION also includes the feature that Lost Planet fans across the globe have been clamoring for – the ability to play as a gigantic marauding Akrid. Revel in the chance to turn the tables on the Snow Pirates as you assume the role of one of E.D.E.N. III’s indigenous creatures in Akrid Hunting mode. All of these modes can be played across a total of 20 diverse maps, including a number of brand-new multiplayer arenas set in areas such as the confines of an ancient coliseum or the zero gravity of space. For the first time, Xbox 360 owners will be able to join up with or play against Windows-based PC gamers, thanks to Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION’s cross-platform compatibility. Lost Planet Extreme Condition – COLONIES EDITION includes everything that made the original Lost Planet a hit on 360, Windows PC and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, as well as the following new features: New modes for single-player campaign
Score Attack – Each enemy and destructible object has points assigned to them, with the player being awarded different points depending on how they defeat the enemy.
Trial Battle Mode – Take on each of the game’s Bosses, one after another
Off limit Mode – Go wild with over-the-top super-charged weapons with unlimited ammunition and increased speed of movement
Click here to view all screenshots Fans of multiplayer action will not be disappointed as Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION allows them to enjoy a host of new maps, characters, weapons and gameplay modes. Players turn poacher as they attempt to steal opponents’ alien Akrid eggs in a number of individual and team play modes, while the addition of VS Annihilator Mode assigns one robotic Vital Suit to each team, which must be defended at all cost. Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION also includes the feature that Lost Planet fans across the globe have been clamoring for – the ability to play as a gigantic marauding Akrid. Revel in the chance to turn the tables on the Snow Pirates as you assume the role of one of E.D.E.N. III’s indigenous creatures in Akrid Hunting mode. All of these modes can be played across a total of 20 diverse maps, including a number of brand-new multiplayer arenas set in areas such as the confines of an ancient coliseum or the zero gravity of space. For the first time, Xbox 360 owners will be able to join up with or play against Windows-based PC gamers, thanks to Lost Planet COLONIES EDITION’s cross-platform compatibility. Lost Planet Extreme Condition – COLONIES EDITION includes everything that made the original Lost Planet a hit on 360, Windows PC and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, as well as the following new features: New modes for single-player campaign
Score Attack – Each enemy and destructible object has points assigned to them, with the player being awarded different points depending on how they defeat the enemy.
Trial Battle Mode – Take on each of the game’s Bosses, one after another
Off limit Mode – Go wild with over-the-top super-charged weapons with unlimited ammunition and increased speed of movement
Wednesday 12 March 2008
Capcom working on a “top secret” Xbox 360 game
Siliconera reports that earlier today, Capcom opened their doors to Bay Area gamers interested in spending an afternoon playing one of their new games. A set of photos from the test are now online and one of them teases us with black boxes over the monitors. While we can’t see the title in question there are Xbox 360 development units adjacent to the flat screen TVs and a 360 pad in someone’s lap. It seems likely the unknown title is going to be an Xbox 360 game. Could this be a test for Lost Planet Colonies? While Capcom has yet to say anything official about a potential Lost Planet follow up many, many ratings boards have Lost Planet Colonies in their database. The room happens to have Lost Planet artwork on the wall too, which may or may not be a coincidence.
Lost Planet Colonies Finally Announced PC/360 Only
Kotaku Writes: Capcom (may) have, via leaked mag scans, had the wraps taken off Lost Planet Colonies, the successor to snowy bug-killing simulator Lost Planet: Extreme Condition. What's new? There's a new playable character (that girl in snow gear) and in online play you'll get the option of playing as the bugs against the humans. That online play will feature cross-platform play between PCs and 360s. There's all-new weapons and all-new monsters to fight (including their eggs), and it'll be out in Japan on May 29. Oh, and no word of a PS3 release as of yet. Bear in mind: all this info comes courtesy of a leaked magazine scan that's been...modified to include super-awesome Xbox Japan boss Takashi Sensui, so until we get some more concrete info, take it all with a grain of salt.
Bioshock 2 officially confirmed
Bioshock 2 has been officially confirmed as being in development at 2K Marin Studio with the game being release later this year.
Tuesday 11 March 2008
The Orange Box Wins More Than 100 Awards
The 2007 award season is coming to an end and that's why Valve Software has announced that The Orange Box has won over 100 awards, including 50 Game of the Year honors. "While some have called it the best value in video game history, Valve took a chance with the product mix in The Orange Box, the game design of Portal, and the art style of Team Fortress 2," said Gabe Newell, president of Valve. "After earning the top review scores of all time on two platforms, becoming a best seller on multiple platforms, and accumulating over 100 awards, that risk has been rewarded by gamers and game critics around the world. We look forward to following up on the success of The Orange Box later this year with the launch of Left 4 Dead on PC and Xbox 360."
Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky
The following in game content is now available for purchase from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Mass Effect. This download includes an additional achievement worth 50 Gamerscore points.
Xbox 360 Top Live Titles
1 call of duty 4
2 halo3
3 guitar hero 3
4 gears of war
5 rock band
6 army of two
7 fifa 08
8 madden nfl 08
9 rainbow six vegsa
10 frontlines fuel of war
2 halo3
3 guitar hero 3
4 gears of war
5 rock band
6 army of two
7 fifa 08
8 madden nfl 08
9 rainbow six vegsa
10 frontlines fuel of war
Microsoft VP on European 360 price drop
“Xbox 360 is now mass market in Europe,” said Chris Lewis, Vice President, Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business Europe. “We have reached and surpassed several key milestones that form part of our long term strategic plan to achieve critical mass in Europe; and our portfolio now offers the kind of mainstream entertainment experiences that secure wider appeal for Xbox 360. These factors allow us to execute on our strategy to widen the market for Xbox 360, as planned.
“We continue to offer intense, immersive gaming experiences for gamers – but now we’re priced in a way that will allow new consumers to find out for themselves why Xbox 360 is the ultimate in high-definition entertainment.” said Lewis. “History shows that €199/£159 is the price point where a console’s audience begins to expand, and with these new ERPs in place we’re ready to bring more consumers into the Xbox 360 world.”
“We continue to offer intense, immersive gaming experiences for gamers – but now we’re priced in a way that will allow new consumers to find out for themselves why Xbox 360 is the ultimate in high-definition entertainment.” said Lewis. “History shows that €199/£159 is the price point where a console’s audience begins to expand, and with these new ERPs in place we’re ready to bring more consumers into the Xbox 360 world.”
An interview with Microsoft about the 360 price drop
By Neil Vaughan - 10 Mar 08
The Xbox Community Network have caught up with Chris Lewis, Regional Vice President, Xbox Europe to ask him some questions about the Xbox 360 price drop in Europe.
So we’ve heard the great news about the reduction in the estimated retail price (ERP) for the European Xbox 360. Why are you deciding to do this now?
From long before we even launched the Xbox 360 we had a very specific plan to hit a number of key milestones in Europe, and our portfolio of games and features now offers the kind of mainstream entertainment experiences that secure wider appeal for the Xbox 360. It’s great to see that we’ve achieved our goals and made it to that critical mass, making Xbox 360 a mass-market proposition. That’s why this is the perfect time to reduce our ERP.
We’ve also seen from history that €199/£159 – which is the new ERP for the Xbox 360 Arcade console - is the price point where a console’s audience really begins to take off, and with these new ERPs in place we’re ready to bring more customers into the Xbox 360 family. For example. PS2 sold 79% of their total installed base after dropping price to this level. It’s an exciting move for us and I’m sure lots of new people will now decide that the Xbox 360 experience is perfect for them!
Over the past few months we’ve seen really strong sales from PS3 and Wii – are you trying to catch up by selling Xbox 360s off cheap?
Not at all. Like I’ve already said, the new ERPs are part of our ongoing strategy to open up the ultimate in high-definition gaming and entertainment to an even wider audience, with an offering for everyone. This is about giving even more people the opportunity to try out Xbox 360.
Tell us more about the overall strategy that you refer to.
No problem. From the beginning we’ve had a very deliberate plan to secure core gamers first, and then expand the market. I think we’ve done a phenomenal job of securing the gamer, with record-setting game attach rates and great growth on Xbox LIVE. But I think Xbox 360 also offers something for everyone. We’ve got huge titles like GTAIV, BioShock, Halo 3, more casual titles like Scene IT? and Guitar Hero, and then there’s Xbox LIVE Arcade’s quick and fun downloadable games, or if you’re in the UK, Ireland, France or Germany a selection of films for the whole family from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
You also recently reduced the estimated retail price of the Xbox 360 HD-DVD drive. Are these two things connected? Should Xbox 360 owners be concerned about the future of their console?
Xbox 360 owners should not be worried at all – in fact, I think they should be more excited than ever about the future of their console! We’re committed to continuing to offer intense, immersive gaming experiences for gamers – but now we’re priced in a way that will allow new consumers to find out for themselves why we think Xbox 360 is the ultimate high-definition entertainment experience. This isn’t connected to any HD-DVD announcement whatsoever.
How do you think Xbox 360 is doing against the PS3 and the Wii?
I’ve said this before and I still truly believe that if someone offered me to trade places with any of our competitors I’d say no thanks. I won’t deny that competition is very high in this generation, but the race is far from over and we are confident we have a winning strategy. Our new ERP is just part of that plan.
So how many Xbox 360s do you think you will sell before the end of your financial year in June?
I’m afraid that we’re not announcing any guidance figures on Xbox 360 sales for a number of competitive and market reasons. But what I can tell you is that Microsoft recently announced the Entertainment and Devices Division reached profitability in the first half of the year driven by record-setting gains from Xbox 360 hardware and software sales. We’ve got a great story to tell about the success of the Xbox 360 – currently more than 17.7 million consoles have been sold, and Xbox LIVE continues to explode with more than 10 million members online to date. But I think the most interesting stat for me is that we have a record-breaking game attach rate of 7, so on average everyone who owns an Xbox 360 game also has 7 great games in their collection. That is the highest attach rate in this generation of gaming, and I think that says so much about the quality of our games, the quality of the overall experience, and the quality for the Xbox 360 community!
We’ve been hearing a lot about ‘broadening the audience’ and ‘opening up the market’. Do you think that’s a realistic goal for Xbox 360 and do you feel you’re making it happen?
Absolutely! We provide the largest next-generation collection of ‘3+’-rated games – there are more than 150 in all. We want to make sure that no matter who you are, what age you are, or where you’re from, Xbox 360 has the perfect selections of games for you. I definitely think we’re making that happen.
So what Xbox 360 games are you most looking forward to in 2008?
Oh wow, there are so many! It’s so exciting to be able to run through the massive games we’ve got coming, especially the next versions of great franchises like GTA, Resident Evil and the sports games like FIFA and Pro Evo. And of course, the Xbox 360 is going to be the only place to play the complete version of GTAIV with two exclusive downloadable episodes only available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
And I have to mention all the massive sequels to games which are already exclusive to Xbox 360! Of course, there’s Gears 2, which will be hitting shops this year. And with Fable 2 and Ninja Gaiden 2 also in the mix I think it’s pretty clear that this is another blockbuster year for Xbox 360.
Another thing I’m really excited about is our plans for the XNA community. We’re giving people the chance to create their own games and share them with the Xbox LIVE community, and I believe the whole XNA program is going to give Xbox 360 owners even more choices and opportunities to experience the broad range of the console.
Xbox has talked previously about the huge number of new Xbox LIVE subscribers who came online over Christmas. How many people are on LIVE now?
There are currently 10 million Xbox LIVE customers in 26 countries. We projected to hit the 10 millions member mark by July 2008, but we are delighted to announce that we reached our goal 6 months early! Of those 10 million members, roughly three-quarters of the Xbox LIVE community are male and one-quarter female, with new members added daily. Something I’m particularly proud of is the huge boost in female Xbox LIVE members, as that number has increased dramatically during the service’s five years. I think it’s another sign that we’re continuing to add the right features like Xbox LIVE Arcade, the Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store and great casual games to bring more and more people – men, women, kids and adults – to Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE.
Thanks for your time Chris!
The Xbox Community Network have caught up with Chris Lewis, Regional Vice President, Xbox Europe to ask him some questions about the Xbox 360 price drop in Europe.
So we’ve heard the great news about the reduction in the estimated retail price (ERP) for the European Xbox 360. Why are you deciding to do this now?
From long before we even launched the Xbox 360 we had a very specific plan to hit a number of key milestones in Europe, and our portfolio of games and features now offers the kind of mainstream entertainment experiences that secure wider appeal for the Xbox 360. It’s great to see that we’ve achieved our goals and made it to that critical mass, making Xbox 360 a mass-market proposition. That’s why this is the perfect time to reduce our ERP.
We’ve also seen from history that €199/£159 – which is the new ERP for the Xbox 360 Arcade console - is the price point where a console’s audience really begins to take off, and with these new ERPs in place we’re ready to bring more customers into the Xbox 360 family. For example. PS2 sold 79% of their total installed base after dropping price to this level. It’s an exciting move for us and I’m sure lots of new people will now decide that the Xbox 360 experience is perfect for them!
Over the past few months we’ve seen really strong sales from PS3 and Wii – are you trying to catch up by selling Xbox 360s off cheap?
Not at all. Like I’ve already said, the new ERPs are part of our ongoing strategy to open up the ultimate in high-definition gaming and entertainment to an even wider audience, with an offering for everyone. This is about giving even more people the opportunity to try out Xbox 360.
Tell us more about the overall strategy that you refer to.
No problem. From the beginning we’ve had a very deliberate plan to secure core gamers first, and then expand the market. I think we’ve done a phenomenal job of securing the gamer, with record-setting game attach rates and great growth on Xbox LIVE. But I think Xbox 360 also offers something for everyone. We’ve got huge titles like GTAIV, BioShock, Halo 3, more casual titles like Scene IT? and Guitar Hero, and then there’s Xbox LIVE Arcade’s quick and fun downloadable games, or if you’re in the UK, Ireland, France or Germany a selection of films for the whole family from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
You also recently reduced the estimated retail price of the Xbox 360 HD-DVD drive. Are these two things connected? Should Xbox 360 owners be concerned about the future of their console?
Xbox 360 owners should not be worried at all – in fact, I think they should be more excited than ever about the future of their console! We’re committed to continuing to offer intense, immersive gaming experiences for gamers – but now we’re priced in a way that will allow new consumers to find out for themselves why we think Xbox 360 is the ultimate high-definition entertainment experience. This isn’t connected to any HD-DVD announcement whatsoever.
How do you think Xbox 360 is doing against the PS3 and the Wii?
I’ve said this before and I still truly believe that if someone offered me to trade places with any of our competitors I’d say no thanks. I won’t deny that competition is very high in this generation, but the race is far from over and we are confident we have a winning strategy. Our new ERP is just part of that plan.
So how many Xbox 360s do you think you will sell before the end of your financial year in June?
I’m afraid that we’re not announcing any guidance figures on Xbox 360 sales for a number of competitive and market reasons. But what I can tell you is that Microsoft recently announced the Entertainment and Devices Division reached profitability in the first half of the year driven by record-setting gains from Xbox 360 hardware and software sales. We’ve got a great story to tell about the success of the Xbox 360 – currently more than 17.7 million consoles have been sold, and Xbox LIVE continues to explode with more than 10 million members online to date. But I think the most interesting stat for me is that we have a record-breaking game attach rate of 7, so on average everyone who owns an Xbox 360 game also has 7 great games in their collection. That is the highest attach rate in this generation of gaming, and I think that says so much about the quality of our games, the quality of the overall experience, and the quality for the Xbox 360 community!
We’ve been hearing a lot about ‘broadening the audience’ and ‘opening up the market’. Do you think that’s a realistic goal for Xbox 360 and do you feel you’re making it happen?
Absolutely! We provide the largest next-generation collection of ‘3+’-rated games – there are more than 150 in all. We want to make sure that no matter who you are, what age you are, or where you’re from, Xbox 360 has the perfect selections of games for you. I definitely think we’re making that happen.
So what Xbox 360 games are you most looking forward to in 2008?
Oh wow, there are so many! It’s so exciting to be able to run through the massive games we’ve got coming, especially the next versions of great franchises like GTA, Resident Evil and the sports games like FIFA and Pro Evo. And of course, the Xbox 360 is going to be the only place to play the complete version of GTAIV with two exclusive downloadable episodes only available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace.
And I have to mention all the massive sequels to games which are already exclusive to Xbox 360! Of course, there’s Gears 2, which will be hitting shops this year. And with Fable 2 and Ninja Gaiden 2 also in the mix I think it’s pretty clear that this is another blockbuster year for Xbox 360.
Another thing I’m really excited about is our plans for the XNA community. We’re giving people the chance to create their own games and share them with the Xbox LIVE community, and I believe the whole XNA program is going to give Xbox 360 owners even more choices and opportunities to experience the broad range of the console.
Xbox has talked previously about the huge number of new Xbox LIVE subscribers who came online over Christmas. How many people are on LIVE now?
There are currently 10 million Xbox LIVE customers in 26 countries. We projected to hit the 10 millions member mark by July 2008, but we are delighted to announce that we reached our goal 6 months early! Of those 10 million members, roughly three-quarters of the Xbox LIVE community are male and one-quarter female, with new members added daily. Something I’m particularly proud of is the huge boost in female Xbox LIVE members, as that number has increased dramatically during the service’s five years. I think it’s another sign that we’re continuing to add the right features like Xbox LIVE Arcade, the Xbox LIVE Marketplace Video Store and great casual games to bring more and more people – men, women, kids and adults – to Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE.
Thanks for your time Chris!
Football Manager 2008 on Xbox 360 Gone Gold
SEGA Europe Ltd. and Sports Interactive today announced that Football Manager 2008 on Xbox 360 has gone gold.
by: Jason Solorzano
March 10, 2008
SEGA Europe Ltd. and Sports Interactive today announced that Football Manager 2008 on Xbox 360 has gone gold. Football Manager™2008 for Xbox 360 has been updated with all transfers from the last transfer window, and retains all the depth and realism of the record breaking PC version. The Xbox 360 version also utilises Xbox Live to have different online modes to the PC game, permitting you to challenge friends to one-on-one matches and even host tournaments, and is a multi-region game, so European copies will work on Xbox 360’s around the world. “We’re really pleased to be able to offer all Xbox 360 owners the chance to play Football Manager” commented Miles Jacobson, Studio Director of Sports Interactive “This years game is the first that “core” users will be able to enjoy due to the hard work of the development team, and we look forward to getting a new generation of budding Football Manager’s across Europe.” Football Manager 2008 was released across Europe for PC and Apple Macintosh in October 2007 and is the fastest selling game in the series to date. The Xbox 360 version will be available in stores on March 28th 2008.
by: Jason Solorzano
March 10, 2008
SEGA Europe Ltd. and Sports Interactive today announced that Football Manager 2008 on Xbox 360 has gone gold. Football Manager™2008 for Xbox 360 has been updated with all transfers from the last transfer window, and retains all the depth and realism of the record breaking PC version. The Xbox 360 version also utilises Xbox Live to have different online modes to the PC game, permitting you to challenge friends to one-on-one matches and even host tournaments, and is a multi-region game, so European copies will work on Xbox 360’s around the world. “We’re really pleased to be able to offer all Xbox 360 owners the chance to play Football Manager” commented Miles Jacobson, Studio Director of Sports Interactive “This years game is the first that “core” users will be able to enjoy due to the hard work of the development team, and we look forward to getting a new generation of budding Football Manager’s across Europe.” Football Manager 2008 was released across Europe for PC and Apple Macintosh in October 2007 and is the fastest selling game in the series to date. The Xbox 360 version will be available in stores on March 28th 2008.
Sunday 9 March 2008
Dark Sector Goes Gold
Dark Sector Goes Gold
by Matt Gibbs
D3Publisher of America (D3PA) today announced that Dark Sector will ship to retail stores in North America on March 25, 2008 for the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Developed by acclaimed developer Digital Extremes, co-creators behind the award-winning Epic Game's Unreal franchise, Dark Sector is an all-new and original action-thriller that will offer players a dark, gritty experience packed with fast action, incredible superpowers and an engaging story.
"Dark Sector fans have been waiting for this moment and we're pleased to say that after months of tweaking and polishing, the game is ready to entertain and wow gamers," said Peter Andrew, vice president of product development, D3PA. "Digital Extremes has poured their heart and soul into this game and it shows through compelling gameplay and absolutely stunning graphics."
Utilizing the Evolution Engine, proprietary next-gen technology developed by Digital Extremes, Dark Sector is an all-new and original action-thriller designed exclusively for next-generation consoles. The game thrusts players into the role of Hayden Tenno, an elite black-ops agent sent on a dangerous mission into a decaying Eastern European city that hides a deadly Cold War secret. Attacked by an unknown enemy, he awakens to find part of his body altered by an infection that has granted him inhuman abilities; he must learn to evolve along with his powers, to survive and to become a hero. A dark, gritty experience packed with fast action, incredible superpowers and an engaging story, Dark Sector represents the next evolution of gaming.
Microsoft will support Blu-ray
Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer has already admitted that they are looking to support the Blu-ray format following the demise of HD-DVD.
Although Ballmer did not specifically mention gaming, it does look as if Microsoft will soon announce a Blu-ray add-on player for the Xbox 360.
Speaking at the Mix08 conference, Ballmer said: "We've already been working on, for example, in Windows, device driver support for Blu-ray drives and the like.
"I think the world moves on," he added. "Toshiba has moved on. We've moved on, and we'll support Blu-ray in ways that make sense."
Although Ballmer did not specifically mention gaming, it does look as if Microsoft will soon announce a Blu-ray add-on player for the Xbox 360.
Speaking at the Mix08 conference, Ballmer said: "We've already been working on, for example, in Windows, device driver support for Blu-ray drives and the like.
"I think the world moves on," he added. "Toshiba has moved on. We've moved on, and we'll support Blu-ray in ways that make sense."
Damnation first look
With some pretty stunning looking graphics, Damnation serves up an adventure laden shooting experience...
Damnation from new developer Blue Omega Entertainment aims to give the player plenty of action-orientated environments to swing around in, and of course shoot nasty enemies in.
Giving the shooter genre a much needed shot in the arm with its unique and exhilarating combination of fluid action and combat, Damnation will feature stunning open environments, frenetic combat, daredevil acrobatics and high-octane vehicle-based stunts.
Presenting players with an intense test of reflexes, quick thinking and rapid-fire conflict, Damnation will feature vast, breathtaking landscapes, each covering miles of distance and thousands of vertical feet. Think Crackdown goes Country.
Players will be able to choose their own paths and navigate the world by performing daredevil feats on the edge of human ability. However players aren't the only ones with mind-blowing acrobatic skills; intelligent enemies will give chase and engage players in frantic gun fights and attacks that can come from any direction – in Damnation's world there's no safe place to hide.
In addition to the single player experience, Damnation fires up LIVE with multiplayer gameplay taking place in the game's expansive levels. Damnation will be available for Xbox 360 in late 2008.
http://www.totally360.com/
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