Brave and Adventurous Mouse Despereaux Embarks on Videogame Quest

-Atari ships The Tale of Despereaux: The Game, featuring the voice of Emma Watson and other cast members, to retailers to tie in with big screen release from Universal Pictures -

NEW YORK, NY – December 11, 2008 –Atari, Inc. announced today the release of The Tale of Despereaux: The Game, adapted from the beloved Newbery Medal-winning novel by Kate DiCamillo and the Universal Pictures animated adventure, which debuts in theaters December 19.  Emma Watson, Robbie Coltrane, Tony Hale and other voice talent from the film reprise their roles for this engaging adventure game.  The game will be available on PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Wii™, and PC, with an originally designed game also available for Nintendo DS™.

The Tale of Despereaux: The Game lets children of all ages play as the world’s most courageous mouse as he sets out on his heroic quest to save Princess Pea and the kingdom of Dor.  Following the storyline from the film and introducing new adventures, the game allows kids to interact with a cast of familiar characters on their way to a magical world filled with exciting battles, fun-filled adventures, and unique puzzles.  The console game features fifteen unique levels, upgradeable skills and tools, as well as multiple difficulty settings, so children of all ages and abilities can have a rewarding experience.  The Nintendo DS™ game features action-packed grappling, swinging, and scurrying, as well as clever puzzles and whimsical unlockable costumes.

The Tale of Despereaux: The Game for the Console and PC is rated E10.  The Nintendo DS version is rated E for Everyone.  All platforms are available in retailers across North America for Wii™ ($39.99), Nintendo DS™ ($29.99), PlayStation®2 system ($29.99), and PC ($19.99).  

Natsume’s complete fall lineup now available at retail for the holidays!

No Matter Who The Gamer Is On Your Shopping List, Natsume Has A Video Game For Them

Burlingame, Calif., December 8, 2008 – Natsume Inc., a worldwide developer and publisher of family-oriented video games, announced today that the company’s full videogame lineup for 2008 is now available at retail, including the most recent release of Rune Factory 2: A Fantasy Harvest Moon for the Nintendo DS. Rune Factory 2: A Fantasy Harvest Moon joins Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness, Princess Debut and Hi! Hamtaro: Ham-Ham Challenge (all for DS) and Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility (for Wii) to complete its 2008 holiday lineup.

“This has been a great year for Natsume as we continued our Harvest Moon series with three brand new Harvest Moon adventures this fall. Add to that some adorable educational fun with Hi! Hamtaro: Ham Ham Challenge and our hugely popular new original IP, Princess Debut and there is truly something for everyone on your list,” said Hiro Maekawa, President and CEO of Natsume.

For more information on each of Natsume’s 2008 holiday lineup see the descriptions below. Each title is rated E for everyone by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and are available at retailers nationwide.

Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness (DS) $29.99
Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness brings the largest portable Harvest Moon experience ever to the Nintendo DS. Starting off with an abandoned farm, a handful of seeds, and the determination to start a new life, it’s up to the player to develop a mysterious, abandoned island into a bustling tropical paradise. By harvesting crops, raising animals, and mining for precious gems, gamers will help the island grow into a vibrant town filled with people, businesses, and eligible bachelors and bachelorettes. Players can take on the role of a male or a female, and choose who they want to fall in love and start a family with. Gamers can also test their farming skills against each other and compete for prizes via the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. Harvest Moon: Island of Happiness is now available for an MSRP of $29.99.

Princess Debut (DS) $29.99
The critics are raving about Natsume’s new IP Princess Debut. GRRLGamer calls Princess Debut a “breath of fresh air”, Cool Moms Rule says the game is “an anime version of Cinderella”, and The Globe and Mail calls it “high quality gaming for girls fascinated by the fantasy princess lifestyle.”

In Princess Debut, players find themselves in a fantasy world where they have 30 days to get ready for the big ball; they’ll have to master their dance moves and win over one of the six handsome princes to be their partner. They’ll meet and woo the princes through the game’s large, branching storyline. Once the player convinces a prince to be their dancing partner, it’s time to go out on the dance floor! By utilizing the Touch Screen, players guide their character gracefully across the dance floor while matching their partner’s rhythm. All of the dances in the game are taken from motion-captured professional dancers, so the game is just as impressive to watch as it is fun to play. Princess Debut offers four modes of play including Story, Ballroom, Practice, and Movie. With 20 outfits to find, 14 unique endings to experience, and 18 different kinds of music and dance styles to choose from (including Waltz, Latin Dance, Tango, Ballroom, and much more), there’s no shortage of things to see and do! Princess Debut is now available for an MSRP of $29.99.

Rune Factory 2: A Fantasy Harvest Moon (DS) $29.99
Rune Factory 2 is set several years after the first game. The evil Sechs Empire has been defeated, and the Kingdom of Norad is once again at peace. Things may not stay that way for long, however, as dark premonitions foretell of dangers to come. It’s up to the player to uncover the source of these premonitions and bring peace to the kingdom once more. Over the course of the story, players will build and develop a farm, befriend townspeople, raise monsters, take on quests, and find a wife. In a first for the Rune Factory series, the story of Rune Factory 2 is multigenerational. Players begin the game as Kyle, a strange man who comes to Alvarna Village. Eventually, players will take on the role of Kyle’s child, opening up a whole new adventure. It’s an innovative feature that allows players to follow the story of their family and the townsfolk over two generations! Now available for an MSRP of $29.99.

Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility (Wii) ) $49.99
In Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility, players find themselves in a troubled island town which once prospered with life and energy, but is now in serious trouble. The mystical Mother Tree that once watched over the island has disappeared, and the Harvest Goddess is nowhere to be found! The island has lost its connection with nature and the inhabitants don’t know what to do – it’s up to the player to save the island! Players will help to rebuild the island by working the land, befriending and raising animals, nurturing friendships, and building a family. When the Mother Tree is reborn, the Harvest Goddess will return and bring prosperity to the island once more. Long-time Harvest Moon fans as well as new players will find an exciting, involving storyline and plenty of activities to experience, including cultivating crops, caring for animals, and participating in festivals. Harvest Moon: Tree of Tranquility is now available for an MSRP of $49.99.

Hi! Hamtaro: Ham-Ham Challenge (DS) $29.99
Hamtaro and his friends make learning fun in Hi! Hamtaro: Ham-Ham Challenge. Children will not only be entertained by the beloved hamster Hamtaro and his adorable cast of friends, they will also develop their memory, word comprehension, math skills, and many other abilities as they play through the twelve engaging interactive games. The game’s easy-to-learn touch screen controls make the game fun and accessible for children of all ages. Parents can take an active role in their child’s playing and learning with features that let them monitor their child’s progress in each game, adjust the difficulty level to match their child’s skills, monitor and control play time, and even reward their child with special items. Hi! Hamtaro: Ham-Ham Challenge for the Nintendo DS is a brain-training game geared at elementary-aged children. Rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board, it is currently available for an MSRP of $29.99.

All of these titles are currently available at various retailers nationwide. For more information, please visit www.natsume.com

Prince of Persia ships to store shelves

PRINCE OF PERSIA® SHIPS TO STORE SHELVES

All-New Epic Adventure Hits Stores, Is Poised to Reign This Holiday Season
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – December 2, 2008 – Today Ubisoft announced that Prince of Persia for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system has shipped to store shelves. Additionally, the complementary adventure exclusively for the Nintendo DS(TM) system, Prince of Persia®: The Fallen King, also shipped to retailers. Prince of Persia has an ESRB of “T” for Teen and will be available at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $59.99 for Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 systems. The Windows-based PC version of the game ships to stores on December 9th and will retail for $49.99. Prince of Persia: The Fallen King has an ESRB of “E” for Everyone and will retail for $29.99.

“Prince of Persia is one of the most innovative and critically acclaimed franchises in video game history,” said Tony Key, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Ubisoft. “This new chapter will continue to set the standard for the action-adventure genre and is a definite must-own title this holiday season.”

About Prince of Persia
Set in a land rooted in ancient Persian mythology, the warrior Prince finds himself caught in an epic battle between the primal forces of light and darkness that pits the God of Light, Ormazd, against his brother, Ahriman, the destructive God of Darkness. After witnessing the destruction of the legendary Tree of Life – an act which unleashes Ahriman’s corrupted darkness onto the land – the Prince and his deadly companion, Elika, embark on a journey to heal the world from the evil Corruption and defeat Ahriman once and for all.

Led by the all-star team that previously created the Prince of Persia® Sands of Time trilogy, Prince of Persia has been in development at Ubisoft’s Montreal studio for over three years. The video game opens an entirely new chapter in the Prince of Persia universe in addition to introducing a fresh illustrative art style, evolved combat system, open world structure and dynamic AI – most notably in the form of the Prince’s powerful ally Elika.

TikGames declassifies Interpol for Xbox Live Arcade

Xbox LIVE® Arcade’s First Hidden Object Spy Game Coming Soon

SAN MATEO, Calif. – Dec. 2, 2008 – TikGames today announced that its formerly top-secret Interpol game is in development for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. This all new adventure, developed by TikGames and published by Microsoft, is slated for release on the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system this winter, offering gamers the heat of a high-stakes criminal chase for a cool 800 Microsoft points.

In Interpol, players track down the evil and destructive fugitive Dr. Chaos by seeking out hidden clues in exotic locales around the world. In single-player campaign, use your keen investigative skills to quickly gather the evidence needed to bring him and his criminal accomplices to justice. Or, join forces with up to three other friends in local or Xbox LIVE cooperative play to put them behind bars together. Only your keen eyes and investigative skills stand between the world and Dr. Chaos’s evil schemes – use them wisely!

“Finally, gamers have the opportunity to play a hidden object game via Xbox LIVE Arcade and cooperate with other crime-fighting agents globally,” said TikGames’ CEO Anatoly Tikhman. “We’re very excited to be the first to bring this highly-engaging genre to the platform and fully expect worldwide crime rates to plummet on launch day in response.”

Interpol has been rated “E” for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board for this platform.

About TikGames: TikGames, LLC was founded in 2002 by Anatoly Tikhman with a plan to develop the most innovative and entertaining games for digital distribution. Towards that end, he has built an industry-leading studio to deliver a broad range of top quality proprietary games. The company is headquartered in San Mateo, California.

Activision and RedOctane Rock the Holiday Season With New Games for the Entire Family

Activision Announces Holiday Game Line-Up in Time for Black Friday

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov 25, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ –
Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) is rocking the holiday season with a robust slate of games for the entire family. Headlining is Guitar Hero(R) World Tour, the latest installment in the best-selling music-based video game franchise, featuring everything from full band to guitar solo challenges. Also touring are Call of Duty(R): World at War, the most intense World War II experience ever; Quantum of Solace(TM), which captures the edge and intrigue of the new Daniel Craig Bond series; Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM), featuring the high-jinx and hilarity of the acclaimed feature film from DreamWorks Animation; and Spider-Man(TM): Web of Shadows, an original game featuring the most recognizable Super Hero of all time, Spider-Man.

Following is a more detailed listing of Activision’s holiday game line-up, which is currently available at retailers in North America:

Call of Duty(R): World at War – Call of Duty: World at War takes players to a grittier WWII than ever before – from facing down Imperial Japanese Banzai charges and guerilla tactics in the Pacific, to exacting ruthless revenge as you beat back the enemy all the way to the steps of Berlin. The title re-defines WWII games by offering an uncensored experience with unique enemies, jaw-dropping firepower like the flamethrower, and combat variety, including Kamikaze fighters and cunning ambush tactics. For the first time in the franchise, Call of Duty: World at War also introduces co-operative gameplay, where up to four-players online, or two-players on a local split- screen, can experience harrowing single-player missions together for greater camaraderie and tactical execution. The title also incorporates traditional multiplayer components such as challenges, rankings and online stats into the co-op campaign for deeper re-playability and advanced gameplay. (The game is rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB and is available on the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION(R)3 computer entertainment system, Nintendo Wii(TM) and Games for Windows(R)). A “T” for Teen rated version is also available on Nintendo DS(TM), while Call of Duty(R): World at War – Final Fronts, also rated “T”, is available on PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system).

Guitar Hero(R) World Tour – Guitar Hero World Tour transforms music gaming by expanding Guitar Hero’s signature guitar gameplay into a cooperative band experience that combines the most advanced wireless instruments with new revolutionary online* and offline gameplay modes including Band Career and 8- player “Battle of the Bands,” which allows two full bands to compete head-to- head online for the first time ever. The game features a slick newly redesigned guitar controller, a drum kit controller and a microphone, as well as an innovative Music Studio music creator that lets players compose, record, edit and share their own rock ‘n’ roll anthems. Music creators will also be able to share their recordings with friends online through GHTunes(SM) where other gamers can download and play an endless supply of unique creations. (The game is rated “T” for Teen and is available on the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, PlayStation2 and Wii).

Guitar Hero(R) On Tour: Decades(TM) – Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades allows gamers to Unleash Their Inner Rockstar anytime, anywhere and for the first time ever share their music with friends as they embark on a musical journey from the classics of the 1970’s through today’s greatest hits. Unprecedented song streaming features allow players of Guitar Hero On Tour: Decades and the smash hit Guitar Hero(R): On Tour to share songs and rock out together in multiplayer modes playing tracks from either version of the game. With a new library of music, characters and venues, the game delivers a portable way for gamers to Unleash Their Inner Rockstar while playing through the history of rock ‘n’ roll. (The game is rated “E10+” and is available on Nintendo DS).

Quantum of Solace(TM) – James Bond is back to settle the score in Quantum of Solace. Introducing a more lethal and cunningly efficient Bond, the game blends intense first-person action with a unique third-person cover combat system that allows players to truly feel what it is like to be the ultimate secret agent as they use stealth, precision shooting and lethal hand-to-hand combat skills to progress through missions. Seamlessly blending the heart- pounding action and excitement of the new “Quantum of Solace” and prior “Casino Royale” Bond films, the title propels players into the cinematic experience of international espionage. (The game is rated “T” for Teen and is currently available on the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, PlayStation2, Wii, Nintendo DS and Games for Windows).

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) – In Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, the four famous zoo animals – Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo – and their entire madcap Madagascar crew take players on a whole new action-packed journey to help save the African savannah. Assuming the roles of all their favorite characters, including those crafty penguins, players must work through 12 distinct levels featuring a variety of wild adventures and fun mini-games. In addition to the diverse single-player gameplay, the Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa video game delivers an enhanced multiplayer tournament mode allowing gamers to participate in outlandish competitions alongside or against friends and family. (The game is rated “E10+” and is available on the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Games for Windows. An “E” rated version is also available on the PlayStation2, Wii and Nintendo DS).

Spider-Man(TM): Web of Shadows – With a story penned by acclaimed Marvel comic book writer Brian Reed, Spider-Man: Web of Shadows features a New York City devastated by a deadly symbiote invasion, in which players are faced with the choice to play as the heroic web-slinger in his classic, agile red suit or the dark, formidable black suit. Battling with or against a huge cast of fan- favorite Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains, gamers can switch allegiances instantly as they decide which missions will ultimately save mankind. An all- new combat system, combining web-slinging and customizable superpowers provides gamers the unrivaled opportunity to fight and explore in an open free-roaming and destructible environment. In battle, Spider-Man’s speed and agility are tested within the diverse cityscape, challenging players to master fast-moving acrobatic combat, powerful new web-slinging moves and destructive combo attacks, as combat seamlessly migrates from the streets, up the sides of buildings and onto rooftops. (The game is rated “T” for Teen and is available on the Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3, Wii and Games for Windows. “E10+” for Everyone 10 and older rated versions are available on DS, PlayStation2 and the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system).

Wii Weekly update: 2 WiiWare, 1 VC Games this week

Nov. 24, 2008

This week, it’s all about you. By adding three new single-player games to the Wii^TM Shop Channel, we’re helping gamers turn their Wii time into “me time.” That said, don’t be surprised if you attract a crowd of onlookers with this remarkable lineup. From elastic critters and elaborate puzzles to a hero with highly questionable manners, these solo titles are suitable for sharing, but give your friends and family fair warning: They may have to wait a while for their turn once you’ve gotten a taste of the single-player fun.

Nintendo adds new and classic games to the Wii Shop Channel at 9 a.m. Pacific time every Monday. Wii owners with a high-speed Internet connection can redeem Wii Points^TM to download the games. Wii Points can be purchased in the Wii Shop Channel or at retail outlets. This week’s new games are:

WiiWare
Boingz (RealArcade, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 1,000 Wii Points): Stretch, flex and flick your way to freedom. A truly mind-bending experience, Boingz introduces you to cute, colorful, stretchable friends lost in an alien world, searching for the magical gates that will take them home. Boingz springs to life with 30 levels of puzzle-platforming fun. The Boingz are bendy little critters that can be pulled, stretched and flicked from place to place like rubber bands. It’s a team effort, as all the Boingz will have to work together to unwind the game’s puzzles. What’s more, many of the Boingz have fallen into a deep slumber, and you’ll have to lead the stronger Boingz to find and wake up their sleepy friends. Explore surreal landscapes, sail through the air like a trapeze artist, walk along the seafloor, and collect the Twinklies to power up your elastic-powered flights.

Sudoku Challenge! (Digital Leisure Inc., 1 player, Rated E for Everyone, 500 Wii Points): Now’s your chance to play the brain-busting puzzle game taking the world by storm. With over 100 million Sudoku puzzles, you’ll never see the same puzzle twice in Sudoku Challenge! You can select the classic nine-by-nine Sudoku game boards as well as Grand Sudoku, which challenges you to complete five intersecting Sudoku boards simultaneously. Just a beginner? Don’t worry-with three difficulty options, even a novice player can complete a Sudoku with ease. But if you’re a seasoned pro, challenge yourself in Expert mode and test your true skills. It’s time to get your thinking cap on and see how many Sudoku puzzles you can conquer.

Virtual Console
Boogerman^TM: A Pick and Flick Adventure (Sega Genesis, 1 player, Rated E for Everyone-Comic Mischief, 800 Wii Points): In this top pick from the Sega Genesis, play as Boogerman, the heroic alter ego of Snotty Ragsdale. While investigating Professor Stinkbaum’s lab, Boogerman stumbles upon a strange machine that opens a portal to another dimension. Boogerman has a nose for adventure, but has he met his match in this sticky situation? Journey through dangerous worlds while battling wicked enemies like Fly Boy and Deodor Ant. Deal them a blow with Boogerman’s super abilities: pick and flick with deadly precision, belch, and use his deadly signature stomp.

For more information about Wii, please visit wii.com.

Xbox 360 Issues the Ultimate Worldwide Casting Call With the Release of ‘You’re in the Movies’

New Xbox 360 exclusive, interactive movie game hits store shelves today using the Xbox LIVE Vision camera for friends and family to create B-movies so bad, they’re good.

REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Today, Xbox 360, Codemasters and Zoe Mode are bringing out the movie star in everyone for the holiday season with the release of “You’re in the Movies,” the first and only game of its kind that transports players into a magical world of cinema and hilarious improvisations. Using the Xbox LIVE Vision camera, friends and families choose a script, act it out and in minutes watch the often hilarious, always entertaining results.

“You’re in the Movies” is the perfect party game for everyone on your list this holiday season. Up to four players compete in a series of minigames that put the spotlight on the unique and often dubious acting talents of friends and family through physical movements, facial expressions and more. Players’ minigame actions are captured and placed into short, riotous films that offer sidesplitting entertainment that can be e-mailed and uploaded to social networking sites. With dozens of classic movie genres ready to go, gamers can live out their dreams of becoming a scream queen, zombie or kung fu master.

“‘You’re In the Movies’ is a fantastic addition to our intellectual property portfolio, and we’re very excited about the excellent result of our partnership with Zoe Mode and Microsoft in bringing such a strong title to market,” said Barry Jafrato, senior vice president of Brand at Codemasters Software Co. Ltd.

“You’re in the Movies” comes with the following features:

– Casting call. “You’re in the Movies” casts players in a variety of exciting roles, from action heroes to silent film stars. Players can choose a genre, script and more.

– The director’s chair. Up to four friends can play together, and it is the director’s job to guide actors through their roles with simple instructions and immediate feedback. The director also rates actors on their physical performance in minigames.

– World premiere. Cinematic creations and user-created movies can be downloaded to your computer to be shared among friends, family and the entire world.

– Post-production. Players can use the director mode to produce their own movies. With this application, players can change music, add voice-overs and re-edit.

– The miracle of technology. The Xbox LIVE Vision camera captures player movements using the revolutionary Cutout Studio technology. “You’re in the Movies” allows players’ performances to be filmed, saved, shared and relived.

“‘You’re in the Movies’ gets you off the couch and into a rich, interactive movie experience for movie lovers everywhere, exclusively for Xbox 360,” said John Schappert, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment LIVE, Software and Services Business at Microsoft Corp. “Xbox LIVE is home to the best movie games, more than 400 high-definition movies available for download, and with the New Xbox Experience, Xbox LIVE now offers thousands of instantly watchable films from Netflix, including over 300 in high definition.”

Xbox 360 is celebrating the launch of “You’re in the Movies” by inviting consumers to the Virgin Megastore in New York City’s Times Square today, from noon to 4 p.m., allowing consumers to make their very own B-movies. Select consumer movies will premiere on Clear Channel Communications Inc.’s big screen in Times Square with the chance of being seen in front of millions of people.

“You’re in the Movies” brings the cool factor to kitsch and makes everyone a star, even if it is straight to DVD. “You’re in the Movies” is rated “E” for Everyone and will be available packaged with the Xbox LIVE Vision camera for an estimated retail price of $69.99(1) beginning today.

A Kingdom for Keflings available today

NinjaBee’s newest title first Xbox 360 game to feature playable Microsoft Avatars

Orem, Utah – November 19, 2008 – NinjaBee, a leading independent developer of Xbox LIVE® Arcade titles, announced today its latest title, A Kingdom for Keflings, is the premium and only new Xbox LIVE Arcade game to incorporate in-game Xbox LIVE Avatar support for the launch of the New Xbox Experience. Players can use their customized Avatar in the game to personally build their kingdom and boss around the tiny Keflings.

Players can use the new, customizable Avatar system to create a unique Avatar that looks the way they want and reflects their individual personality. These custom characters can instantly be put to work in the game interacting with Keflings, building buildings, collecting resources and even doing some custom animations like scaring the Keflings away, dancing, posing, and pointing and laughing. Xbox LIVE Avatars can be personalized through a wide variety of apparel and accessories that will be updated every two weeks and available for free. Your custom Avatar can be shared with friends, used to chat with people in LIVE Party, and can even star as the main character in certain games, such as A Kingdom for Keflings.

“A Kingdom for Keflings allows players to create a kingdom according to their own play style,” said Steve Taylor, President of NinjaBee. “It was designed from the start to be a customizable experience. With the addition of Xbox LIVE Avatars, players can now further tailor their experience by putting themselves into the game. Avatar characters can do everything the built-in giants can do, but they look even better doing it.”

A Kingdom for Keflings is an innovative new city-building title from the studio that developed and published the award winning Band of Bugs, Outpost Kaloki X and Cloning Clyde. A Kingdom for Keflings features fun and light-hearted gameplay with stunning visuals and original music to match. The gameputs players in the shoes of their very own giant avatar who is personally helping a village of Keflings become a full city. Giants start out with a small village and a handful (literally!) of helpful Keflings who are small humanoids that follow the player’s commands and try not to get stepped on. Each game is different as players customize their kingdom to their personal vision. The online multiplayer option allows up to four giants to build a kingdom cooperatively over Xbox LIVE Arcade. A Kingdom for Keflings is rated “E” For Everyone and can be downloaded directly from Xbox LIVE Arcade for 800 Microsoft Points.

First-Ever Screenshots for Evasive Space Revealed by YUKE’S

New In-Game Screens Provide Glimpse of Top-Down Space Adventure for WiiWare

CHICAGO – Nov. 19, 2008

YUKE’S Company of America today revealed the first set of in-game screenshots and level details for Evasive Space, a new action space adventure for WiiWare™ under development by High Voltage Software. Set to launch this coming January, Evasive Space will blast you off on a space adventure in which you will be piloting Konki from a top-down view through various mazes and environments; creatively using the Wii Remote™’s infrared pointer for control. The new screens offer a look at Acts 1 and 2, out of a total of four Acts, each one featuring a central theme and five scenes of varying objectives.

Act 1: Crystal World 
-Scene 1: The Gobo Caverns – Timed run through a cave maze 
-Scene 2: The Terradyne Asteroid – Open space play; collect “spacemen” while avoiding the asteroids 
-Scene 3: The Pirate Nagumo’s Space Cruiser – Timed run through a ship maze 
-Scene 4: The Galdonia Nebula – Open space play with rotating level; collect energy cells while avoiding gas clouds from the sun 
-Scene 5: The Gobo Caverns 2 – Timed run through new areas of the caverns with additional upgrades to collect

Act 2: Fire World 
-Scene 1: The Rings of Minot IV – Open space play with rotating level; collect energy cells while avoiding asteroids 
-Scene 2: The Lava Fields of Ikaku – Timed run through a cave maze 
-Scene 3: The Mugavi Belt – Open space play; avoid asteroids while collecting “spacers” and returning them to their ships 
-Scene 4: The Lava Fields of Ikaku Part 2 – Timed run through new areas of the caverns while avoiding shooting steam hazards 
-Scene 5: Velkor’s Pyroclasitc Ship of Doom – Maze run; collect energy cells and find the exit portal

Stay tuned for screenshots revealing Acts 3 and 4, as well as additional details about the various environments!

Evasive Space has been rated “E” for Everyone with Mild Fantasy Violence by the ESRB and will be downloadable for 1,000 Wii™ Points.

About Evasive Space 
Creatively integrating the Wii Remote’s infrared pointer, you’ll be guiding Konki on timed and collection based missions through 20 stages of varying mazes and obstacles in five different environments, spanning treacherous terrains including asteroid belts, planetary rings, astro-caves, and large space stations. Hazards surround your every move – enemy fire, asteroids, black holes, tight corridors – while ship upgrades tempt you at every turn. Fly solo to find and restore the missing stars to the sky, or compete with up to three of your friends in local multiplayer matches that will determine which pilot has the quickest and skilled navigation abilities…

Kutoka Interactive launches “Didi and Ditto Preschool – Mother Nature’s Visit” for kids 2 to 4 years old

Children Have So Much Fun Playing The Game They Won’t Even Realize They Are Learning Valuable Skills in Math, Science Music and Art

MONTREAL- (November 18, 2008)  Kutoka Interactive, producer of the award-winning Mia edutainment software series, is proud to announce the launch of the third title in its beloved Didi & Ditto series of fun and educational software for the PC and Macintosh. The new game continues the company’s tradition of high-quality production values: appealing characters, unique and distinctive graphics, feature-film quality animation and solid educational content. The engaging learning adventure, Didi & Ditto Preschool
- Mother Nature’s Visit, is targeted at children ages two to four years old and will catch and keep children’s attention with exciting activities related to pre-reading, pre-math, science, music and art.

In this adventure of the brother/sister twins Didi and Ditto, we find our two zany beavers preparing a reception for Mother Nature’s visit to their hometown called Smart Valley, a special, wacky world where spiral trees and funny characters abound. Zolt, a sneaky purple wolf, is trying to ruin the party by breaking all of the musical instruments and hiding all of the food.

He then plans to step in and be the hero when Mother Nature arrives. Didi and Ditto notice that Zolt is acting strange and decide to keep an eye on him. It is up to the player to decide which beaver will watch Zolt very carefully while the other one helps Hootdini get ready for the festivities.

In the game, children will work on recognizing letters and numbers, counting, classifying, identifying shapes and sounds, as well as developing observation abilities, understanding oral instructions, and more. These skills are seamlessly incorporated into the game play as the player helps Didi and Ditto. There are 16 entertaining activities and lots of funny animations. As in the previous Didi & Ditto games, children can choose to play the game as either the female character (Didi) or the male character (Ditto), a choice that can be very important to a preschooler.

A Grade-Based Learning Series
Each title in the Didi & Ditto series is designed to strengthen and reinforce what children will be learning at school and covers multiple subjects. At the start of each game there is a choice of three difficulty levels giving the games a great deal of replayability. “For many years, parents have mentioned their desire to have software for their preschoolers”, said Richard Vincent, Kutoka’s CEO and Creative Director.

“Didi & Ditto Preschool fills that gap and is a an extraordinary high-quality fun game we are very proud of. This software helps children acquire age-appropriate knowledge and skills that will help them later, when they start kindergarten.”

Fun AND Educational
Children love to play the educational activities in Didi & Ditto because they were designed to be FUN. Another motivation comes from the fact that the activities need to be completed in order to finish the game. So, the game supports, as well as develops, children’s essential skills while they are having an terrific time playing. Children can play the whole game but they also have the option to choose specific skills to directly focus on and practice.

Pricing and Availability
Didi & Ditto Preschool – Mother Nature’s Visit is a hybrid DVD-ROM that is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh computers. The software has a suggested retail price of $19.99 U.S. and can be purchased at J&R, The Apple Store and other retailers nationwide or online directly from Kutoka athttp://store.kutoka.com.

Kutoka: 13 Years Already!
Kutoka is 13 years old already but even more amazing, its beloved and world-famous Mia Mouse character is 10 years old this year! Kutoka Interactive develops, produces and publishes high-quality interactive content. The company has won over 150 national and international awards for its highly acclaimed Mia and Didi & Ditto series. As well as distributing its own content, Kutoka has also been growing as distributor of third party products since 2001.

For more information, visit Kutoka’s Web site athttp://www.kutoka.com.

Majesco Entertainment Announces ‘Cooking Mama World Kitchen’ For Wii(TM) is Now Available

Latest Offering in the Multi-Million Selling Franchise Includes Wealth of New Features

EDISON, N.J., Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Majesco Entertainment Company (Nasdaq: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, today announced that Cooking Mama World Kitchen for Wii(TM) is now available at retail stores nationwide. Developed by Cooking Mama Limited, the second installment of the fan favorite Wii series is filled with new features including kitchen mini-games, 3D graphics, 51 fresh recipes, customization, 2 player cooperative cooking and a bonus unlockable game mode!

“We are incredibly excited to deliver Cooking Mama World Kitchen to fans in advance of the holiday season,” said Jesse Sutton, Chief Executive Officer, Majesco. “Mama’s Wii sequel is designed to maximize the fun — from new comedic mini-games to cooperative play, World Kitchen delivers it all in full 3D along with improved motion controls that make virtual cooking an event for the whole family.”

In Cooking Mama World Kitchen players use the Wii Remote as a universal cooking utensil to chop, grate, slice and stir their way through 51 all-new recipes, ranging from parfait to Ratatouille to pancakes and French fries. A range of modes lets players cook for Mama’s approval, their friends’ picky palates or together as a team to create dishes in a new cooperative mode. A bonus hidden mode will even surprise gamers with competitive culinary play against the original “master cook!” In World Kitchen, preparation mistakes are events unto themselves since new mini-games add hilarious fun with Mama’s lovable canine protege, Max. Finally, a new customization feature lets players create their own personal chef or even an adorable mini Mama!

Cooking Mama World Kitchen for Wii is rated E for Everyone and available now for the suggested retail price of $49.99. To watch the official trailer and find out more, please visit www.cookingmama.com.

Evasive Space Begins the Countdown for Launch on WiiWare

New Space Adventure Announced by YUKE’S Company of America

CHICAGO – Nov. 13, 2008

The fate of the heavens is in your hands in Evasive Space, YUKE’S Company of America and High Voltage Software’s latest space action title for Nintendo’s WiiWare™ service announced today, set to launch this coming January. Capturing the casual pick up and play nature of past WiiWare favorites combined with the creative use of the Wii Remote™’s infrared pointer, pilot your rocket ship on a wildly dangerous interplanetary mission to save the stars.

You’ll be guiding Konki on timed and collection-based missions through 20 stages of mazes and obstacles in five different environments spanning treacherous terrain including asteroid belts, planetary rings, astro-caves, and large space stations. Hazards surround your ship at every move – enemy fire, asteroids, black holes, tight corridors – while ship upgrades tempt you at every turn. Compete with up to three of your friends in local multiplayer matches that will determine which pilot has the quickest and most skilled navigation abilities…

Backstory 
Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder WHERE you are … The universe is going dark and it’s up to you Konki, Stellar Guardian, to put things right. Dr. Dark Matter and his roving band of space thieves have stolen many of the Constellation Stones that make up the heavens. Some stones have been sold to unscrupulous space types while others were lost during the getaway. Whatever the situation, you must come through. Suit-up, power-up, and live up to the task at hand. Recover the lost Constellation Stones and once again bring light to the night sky.

“We’re seeing some great digital distribution methods that allow us the opportunity to deliver fun games to consumers at an affordable price,” said Nate Fitt, Marketing Manager of YUKE’S Company of America. “Evasive Space is our debut on the wonderful WiiWare platform for the world’s most popular game console, the Nintendo Wii™ system. The game will stay true to the nature of the platform by offering an engaging and addictive space adventure that both casual players and hardcore gamers will appreciate.”

“This is our first game published by YUKE’S Company of America, and we’re looking forward to kicking off our relationship with the success of Evasive Space,” states Kerry J. Ganofsky, CEO of High Voltage Software. “We’ve had great experiences developing and distributing games through WiiWare, and we hope that our newfound cooperation with YUKE’S will deliver some great new games and generate positive results for both of our companies as we take advantage of new digital distribution opportunities.”

Assets for Evasive Space will be coming soon, so stay tuned for the countdown to liftoff!

Evasive Space has been rated “E” for “Everyone” with Mild Fantasy Violence by the ESRB and will be downloadable for 1,000 Wii Points.

Age of Booty now available on PSN

One of Capcom’s Hottest Downloadable Games is Available Today on PLAYSTATION®Network.

SAN MATEO , Calif. — November 13, 2008 — Capcom® Entertainment, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, launched Age of Booty™ for PLAYSTATION®Network today. Developed by Certain Affinity™, known for their previous work on the Halo® series , Age of Booty is a downloadable real-time multiplayer strategy game that puts players in command of a pirate ship with the goal of destroying your enemies and capturing towns for your pirate faction.

In Age of Booty, players team up with friends online or AI-controlled pirate ships to raid, pillage, sink, and destroy their way to dominance on the high seas. Spoils of war and booty are used to upgrade and customize pirate ships to make them even more deadly as players take on 21 unique challenges and seven of the most devious Pirate Alliances on the high seas. Gain notoriety and fame by climbing the online leader boards. Create and share custom maps using the intuitive map creation system. Players can expect free content updates for Age of Booty though-out the lifespan of the game. There will be 25 + maps including downloadable ones available on Launch Day!

Age of Booty is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) and is available for $9.99 PLAYSTATION®Network .

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors out now

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov 04, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ — Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) is reuniting gamers with some of their favorite DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. (NYSE: DWA) characters with the release of the Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) and Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors(TM) video games, now available on store shelves.

Based on DreamWorks Animation’s highly anticipated sequel film, “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa,” which comes to U.S. theaters on November 7th, the Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) video game allows gamers to play as the popular characters from the movie including Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo and members of their madcap Madagascar crew, most notably King Julien and those crafty Penguins, to help save the African savannah in an all new action-packed adventure. The game offers a large variety of gameplay as well as an extensive multiplayer tournament mode allowing fans to share the excitement with friends and family.

Kung Fu Panda’s Po and the Furious Five return in an all-new awesome video game adventure in Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors(TM). Developed exclusively for Nintendo platforms, gamers can play as Po, Tigress, Monkey or Shifu on Wii(TM) and as Po or Tigress on Nintendo DS(TM) as they battle hordes of enemies using their masterful kung fu skills to save the rest of the Furious Five who have been captured by the evil Tai Lung. Players can even invite a friend to join the action at any point in the pick-up and play co-op mode or challenge each other in the head-to-head or team-based multiplayer mode.

“The Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) and Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors(TM) games capture the fun, action and humor of both DreamWorks Animation movies,” said Kim Salzer, vice president of Global Brand Management, Activision Publishing. “Kids of all ages will have a blast playing through expanded movie worlds on their own or engaging in the fun-filled adventures with family and friends.”
About Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa video game:
Following the success of DreamWorks Animation’s 2005 blockbuster movie and best-selling video game “Madagascar” comes the all new Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) video game. Assuming the roles of all their favorite characters, including those crafty Penguins, players must work through 12 distinct levels featuring a variety of wild adventures and fun mini-games. In addition to the diverse single-player gameplay, the Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) video game delivers an enhanced multiplayer tournament mode allowing gamers to participate in zany competitions alongside or against friends and family.

The game is available for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii and the PLAYSTATION(R)3 computer entertainment system for a suggested retail price of $49.99; the PlayStation2 computer entertainment system for the suggested retail price of $39.99; Nintendo DS for a suggested retail price of $29.99; and Games for Windows(R) for a suggested retail price of $19.99. The Xbox 360, the PLAYSTATION 3 system and PC versions have been rated “E10+” (Mild Cartoon Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Simulated Gambling); the PlayStation2 system and Wii versions have been rated “E” (Cartoon Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Simulated Gambling) and the handheld game has been rated “E” (Cartoon Violence, Comic Mischief) by the ESRB.
For more information on the Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa(TM) video game, please visit www.MadagascarGame.com.
About Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors:
Po, Monkey, Tigress and Shifu (Po and Tigress only on DS) return in an all-new action-packed journey to protect the Valley of Peace from Tai Lung and his minions. Utilizing motion and gesture-based controls gamers perform acrobatic jump attacks, wield weapons against foes and unleash powerful Chi Attacks by simulating customizable symbols featured on-screen. A second player can jump into the epic kung fu battle at any time to help chop, kick and punch their way to awesomeness in the co-op or multiplayer modes.

The game is available on Wii for a suggested retail price of $49.99 and Nintendo DS for a suggested retail price of $29.99 and is rated “E10+” (Cartoon Violence) by the ESRB.
For more information on the Kung Fu Panda: Legendary Warriors(TM) video game, please visit www.KungFuPandaGame.com

Princess Debut goes gold

LET OUT YOUR INNER PRINCESS – NATSUME’S MAGICAL PRINCESS DEBUT FOR NINTENDO DS GOES GOLD

Due Out At The End of This Month, Natsume’s Brand New IP Lets Girls Step into the Shoes of a Princess

Burlingame, Calif., September 9, 2008 – Natsume, a worldwide developer and publisher of family-oriented video games, announced today that Princess Debut for the Nintendo DS has gone to gold master. Scheduled to ship at the end of this month, Princess Debut is the perfect video game for any young girl who dreams of becoming a fairy tale princess!

Published and developed by Natsume, Princess Debut continues the company’s commitment to publishing family-friendly interactive entertainment. Perfect for girls of all ages and skill levels, the rhythm and adventure title offers girls the chance to step through a portal into an enchanting world where they become a princess.

In the game, players find themselves in a fantasy world where they have 30 days to get ready for the big ball; they’ll have to master their dance moves and win over one of the six handsome princes to be their partner. They’ll meet and woo the princes through the game’s large, branching storyline. Once the player convinces a prince to be their dancing partner, it’s time to go out on the dance floor! By utilizing the Touch Screen, players will guide their character gracefully across the dance floor while matching their partner’s rhythm. All of the dances in the game are taken from motion-captured professional dancers, so the game is just as impressive to watch as it is fun to play.

Princess Debut offers four modes of play including Story, Ballroom, Practice, and Movie. With 20 outfits to find, 14 unique endings to experience, and 18 different kinds of music and dance styles to choose from (including Waltz, Latin Dance, Tango, Ballroom, and much more), there’s no shortage of things to see and do!

With the holiday season just around the corner, Princess Debut is the perfect gift to give to any girl who has always dreamed of becoming a princess and finding her own Prince Charming! Princess Debut will be available exclusively for the Nintendo DS for an SRP of $29.99.

Princess Debut is rated E for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB).

For more information on Princess Debut, please visit www.natsume.com.