PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM UPDATE – V1.82 NOW AVAILABLE

Sony has once again released an updated version of the PlayStation 3’s system software. As with previous updates, Sony has added a few more little bells and whistles to the PlayStation 3 that you may not have felt you needed, but are nice to have just the same. This time around it’s the addition of support for MPEG-4 video playback that’s been added – so if that’s been on your PS3 wish list for awhile now, you can cross it off.

Rather than posting the entire 1.8X list of features, I’ve just listed the items marked as “new for v1.82” from the PlayStation Network Update page.

• Video
  • Support for playback of AVC High Profile (H.264/MPEG-4) format video has been added. *
    * High image quality encoding method used by Blu-ray Discs and other media
• Other
  • Support for playback of AVC High Profile (H.264/MPEG-4) format video has been added. *
    * High image quality encoding method used by Blu-ray Discs and other media

I think you know what I’m going to say next… These new features are all fine and well, however Sony really needs to do something about the games available for the platform, because while I love using my PS3 as an upscaling DVD player really wasn’t what I purchased it for.

• PlayStation 3 Network Updates – PlayStation.com

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: GRAND THEFT AUTO IV

Power was only restored here a little while ago, so I haven’t had the time to do my usual news-digging. What I did have the time to do was go over to GameTrailers.com and get my grubby mitts on the new trailer for Grand Theft Auto IV. This latest video gives us a little more of a glimpse into the story behind GTAIV’s action while taking a bit of a tour around Liberty City. Let’s take a look;

While that may not exactly be gameplay footage, it does look like it was rendered from inside the game itself – which would mean things are looking pretty good for GTAIV at this point. Grand Theft Auto IV will be released on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 on October 16th, 2007.

Those of you who want to watch the above video in high-definition or download one of the GTAIV trailers should head on over to the Grand Theft Auto IV video page at GameTrailers.com.

• Grand Theft Auto IV – Official website
• Rockstar Games – Company website
• Grand Theft Auto IV: Trailer 2 SD – GameTrailers.com
• Grand Theft Auto IV video page – GameTrailers.com

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

FREE F.E.A.R. MULTIPLAYER MAP PACK AVAILABLE FOR PC & XBOX 360

We’re currently experiencing some technical difficulties due to severe storms in the area, so I’ll keep this one short so that should my internet connection come back up, I’ll be able to get it out before everything goes down again. Sierra has made a bonus map pack for F.E.A.R. available at no charge for both the PC and Xbox 360. The map pack not only contains additional multiplayer maps, but also introduces two new multiplayer game modes – "Control" and "Conquer All". The map pack can be downloaded on PC from your favorite file downloading site and on the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

Don’t mind the mess – We’re getting ready to move

Don’t mind the mess (or extremely old posts) – We’re just preparing to jump servers and as such are moving all of our old blogs over to WordPress format. If you’re currently looking for NYLatenite’s Gamer’s Paradise – (also known as nylatenite.com) – we’re still over at www.nylatenite.com. Thanks!

About

Here’s what you need to know about this wonderful little site that I call home…

This site is entirely based on the personal opinions of the editorial staff, internet reports, conjecture, rumors, and blatant idiocy. In no way should any report, news item, picture or description on this site ever be taken as 100 percent factual. To put it simply, if you think the 10 minutes of research I may do into a specific subject is enough for you to take something as reported at face value, you need to get your head examined.

As implied by the statement above, information on this website can, and probably will, contain numerous inaccuracies and as such should never be used to make any kind of an informed decision on a subject. Seriously. The nature of news on the internet and the business of reporting on rumors, ommissions and, let’s call it what it is, wild-ass guessing should never be mistaken as 100 percent accurate. While all attempts are made to report things as accurately as we can, things are always going to get missed or misunderstood in the shuffle.

In short, take everything on this site as what it is – news being reported by someone who is a fan of the video game industry, but who has no connections to the game industry or related businesses.

If you’ve seen something you feel is inaccurate or misinterperated, feel free to drop us a line at nylatenite@yahoo.com to let us know the truth of the matter. Thank you.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – CARCASSONNE

This week, the Xbox Live Arcade heads back to the board game arena with another translation of a popular European board game. Carcassonne is a game in which players get points for building towns, roads and farms by placing tiles on the playing field. I’ve never played the board game this translation is based on, so my best advice to you here is to download the demo and give it a try for yourself.

One thing to note here is that according to the Carcassonne product page at Xbox.com, the ESRB rating for the game is still pending. A quick search of the ESRB’s ratings for upcoming Xbox 360 games also made no reference to the game – despite showing ratings for many other upcoming XBLA titles. For this reason, I’m also advising any parents out there to be sure to check the ratings information on the game prior to purchasing it.

Title: Carcassonne
Developer: Sierra Online
Publisher: Sierra Online
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 6/27/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4 (1-5 for online play)
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: Not Available
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Master strategy in the medieval world! In the classic board game Carcassonne, the medieval countryside thrives as you and your opponents place tiles and complete towns, roads, and farms while competing to amass the most points. Own the largest towns, longest roads, and biggest farms. Build your world at the expense of your opponents.

• Full game implementation: Carcassonne features the complete 72 tiles from the original board game, all rule sets, and the 12 additional tiles found in the Rivers 1 Expansion Set.
• Challenge your friends: Multiplayer capability allows for up to five players on Xbox LIVE®, or four players on one Xbox 360™ console.
• Easy to learn and play: A helpful step-by-step tutorial will teach you the game in minutes.
• Special A.I. settings: Special A.I. settings will challenge any skill level." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release, I completely passed on Band of Bugs as the whole idea just didn’t appeal to me. Based on what I’ve read around the old internet water cooler, the game is a mixed bag. Most sites felt it was a decent idea, but in making it’s rules more accessible to casual players, the game lost a lot of it’s strategic potential.

WIPEOUT HD COMING TO PLAYSTATION 3 THIS YEAR

1UP.com is reporting that Sony will be releasing a downloadable game in the Wipeout series for the PlayStation 3 before the year is done. Wipeout HD will not be a full fledged sequel – that job will be left to an as-of-yet unnamed Wipeout title which should be hitting the PS3 some time in 2008. Wipeout HD will most likely feature an online multiplayer mode played out on high-definition versions of the tracks found in the upcoming Wipeout Pulse for the PSP.

Now, back when the series first started, I was a huge fan of the game. I remember playing the game on my Sega Saturn and loving it, only to have my jaw drop to the floor a few months later when I picked up a PlayStation and witnessed it with the PSX’s lighting effects. Hell, I loved the game so much, that when I purchased a second PlayStation just prior to the release of Resident Evil 2, I immediately picked up another copy of Wipeout along with a system-link cable in hopes of playing some two screen races with friends. While the more recent additions to the series have lost something along the way, I’m still looking towards this release with some anticipation – after all, you never know when lightning could strike twice.

• Wipeout HD Coming Soon to a PS3 Near You – 1Up.com
• Wipeout – Series information at Wikipedia

THIS WEEK’S RELEASES: JUNE 25TH – JULY 1ST

Well folks, it’s been a long time since we’ve seen a release list this big, so hang on – it’s gonna be one heck of a ride at retail this week. How busy is the list? Well, it’s so busy that there are titles for the Gameboy Advance, Gamecube and Xbox on the list – now that’s busy. Let’s take a look…

We’ll open up with our three movie adaptions. We’ve got Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (360, DS, PS2, PS3, PSP, WII & PC), Transformers: The Game (360, PS2, PS3, WII) and Ratatouille (360, DS, GBA, GC, PC, PS2, PS3, PSP, WII & XBX) all hoping they can prove to be exceptions to the rule that movie tie-in games suck. I’m not holding out much hope though.

Next up, we’ve got The Darkness (360 & PS3) – 2K Games adaption of the Top-Cow comic of the same name. Take the role of ex-contract killer Jackie Estacado in this first person shooter where in addition to firearms, you’ll use the powers of the curse that is the Darkness to destroy your enemies.

Baseball fans get some love this week with The Bigs (360, PS2, PSP & WII) from 2K Sports – an over-the-top arcade style baseball title along the lines of such past games as NBA Jam & NFL Blitz – before it became Blitz: The League.

Capcom’s Lost Planet: Extreme Condition makes it’s PC debut this week – there’s not much else to say here – Lost Planet was one of those games that came out of nowhere after it’s initial Xbox 360 demo was released, but left many feeling cold with a campaign mode that didn’t make a whole lot of sense and a combat system that made the term “knock-down” a dirty word. It was a good game, but it could have been so much more.

If evil is your thing, Codemaster’s Overlord (360 & PC) could be the title for you. You take the role of a newly crowned Overlord who must rebuild your predecessor’s empire by defeating seven now corrupt heroes. If the game can keep the sense of fun and humor that the demo of the game possessed for it’s duration, they could have quite the sleeper hit here.

Finally, the PlayStation 3 gets it’s port of Ubisoft’s smash hit Rainbow Six: Vegas this week, so those of you Rainbow fans who have a PS3 and haven’t had a chance to try the game yet are in for a treat.

See? I told you it was going to be a busy – and expensive week – at retail. There’s lots more to choose from, so let’s take a look at the full release list, shall we?

• Guild 2: The Pirates of the Seas – PC – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – 360 – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – DS – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – PS2 – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – PS3 – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – PSP – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – WII – 6/26/2007
• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – PC – 6/26/2007
• Hour of Victory – 360 – 6/26/2007
• Jewels of Cleopatra – PC – 6/26/2007
• Model Train 3D – PC – 6/26/2007
• Pokemon Battle Revolution – WII – 6/26/2007
• The Bigs – 360 – 6/26/2007
• The Bigs – PS2 – 6/26/2007
• The Bigs – PS3 – 6/26/2007
• The Bigs – PSP – 6/26/2007
• The Bigs – WII – 6/26/2007
• The Darkness – 360 – 6/26/2007
• The Darkness – PS3 – 6/26/2007
• Touchmaster – DS – 6/26/2007
• Transformers: The Game – 360 – 6/26/2007
• Transformers: The Game – Cybertron Edition – 360 – 6/26/2007
• Chicken Shoot – WII – 6/27/2007
• Driver: Parallel Lines – PC – 6/27/2007
• Driver: Parallel Lines – WII – 6/27/2007
• Final Fantasy – PSP – 6/27/2007
• Grim Grimoire – PS2 – 6/27/2007
• Horsez – GBA – 6/27/2007
• Hoshigami Remix: Running Blue – DS – 6/27/2007
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – PC – 6/27/2007
• Nervous Brickdown – DS – 6/27/2007
• Overlord – 360 – 6/27/2007
• Overlord – PC – 6/27/2007
• Rainbow Six: Vegas – PS3 – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – 360 – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – DS – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – GBA – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – GC – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – PC – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – PS2 – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – PSP – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – WII – 6/27/2007
• Ratatouille – XBX – 6/27/2007
• Seven Kingdoms: Conquest – PC – 6/27/2007
• Steel Horizon – PSP – 6/27/2007
• Super Collapse! 3 – PSP – 6/27/2007
• The Adventures of Darwin – PS2 – 6/27/2007
• Transformers: The Game – PS2 – 6/27/2007
• Transformers: The Game – PS3 – 6/27/2007
• Transformers: The Game – WII – 6/27/2007
• TraxxPad – PSP – 6/27/2007
• Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing – PSP – 6/28/2007
• Ride! Carnival Tycoon – PC – 6/30/2007
• Vegas Casino: High 5 – DS – 6/30/2007

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: HEAVENLY SWORD – GAMER’S DAY ‘07

While it’s been an incredibly slow weekend on the gaming news front, I still haven’t had a chance to sit down and write out my thoughts on the whole Manhunt 2 situation. What that means to you, beyond the fact that you’ve been saved from hearing my rantings for now, is that you get a video to watch instead.

We’re revisiting Sony’s Heavenly Sword today and what we’ve got this time is… well, it’s more combat footage in areas that we’ve seen before. While there’s nothing wrong with the combat you’re about to watch, I’m still a little nervous regarding the general lack of information coming out of Sony on Heavenly Sword. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that they’re just saving everything for a last minute media blitz so that people don’t lose the “wow” factor the game carries with it when you see it in action.

Those of you looking for more videos of Heavenly Sword, or who want to download the above video in standard or high definition, should head on over to the Heavenly Sword video page at GameTrailers.com. One word of warning here: If you don’t want any spoilers about the game’s plot, you may want to skip the “Gamers Day 07 Moves and Technologies Interview” GameTrailers has available.

Heavenly Sword is scheduled to release later this year exclusively for the PlayStation 3.

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword video page – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Gamer’s Day 07 Trailer – Gametrailers.com

XBOX 360 SURF’S UP DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Ubisoft’s Surf’s Up: The Video Game for the Xbox 360 is now available for download to all Xbox Live Members in Canada, Mexico and The United States via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Demo size is approximately 667.87mb.

• Surf’s Up: The Video Game – Official game website.

MANHUNT 2 GETS SHANKED AND YANKED

I’d love to go into detail on my thoughts regarding the whole Manhunt 2 rating issue right now, but unfortunately, time is working against me right now – hopefully I’ll get to talk at length about the situation over the weekend. What I will talk about right now is that Gamespot is reporting that Take-Two Interactive has decided to "temporarily suspend" the release of the now embattled Manhunt 2 while the company takes a long look at what it’s options are as far as the game is concerned;

"Take-Two Interactive Software has temporarily suspended plans to distribute Manhunt 2 for the Wii or PlayStation platforms while it reviews its options with regard to the recent decisions made by the British Board of Film Classification and Entertainment Software Rating Board. We continue to stand behind this extraordinary game. We believe in freedom of creative expression, as well as responsible marketing, both of which are essential to our business of making great entertainment.” -Take-Two Interactive (as reported by Gamespot)

The big decision here is whether Take-Two will attempt to change the game enough for the ESRB to drop it’s rating to "Mature" or shelve the title entirely. There’s no middle ground on this one as both Nintendo and Sony have already stated they will not certify Adults Only rated games for play on their consoles, which means the rating no longer just makes the game a pariah to most retailers, but now makes the game (which was scheduled to release on the PS2, PSP and Wii) completely unsellable.

So there you have it – Manhunt 2 will not be making it’s scheduled July 10th release date or quite possibly any other release date. Sounds like Thrill Kill all over again.

• Take-Two shelves Manhunt 2 – Gamespot
• Manhunt 2 – Official website
• Take-Two Interactive – Company website
• Entertainment Software Ratings Board – Official website

MOTORSTORM GETS TIME ATTACK MODE

Motorstorm owners who have been waiting for the long promised Time Attack mode for the game, your wait is finally over. Yesterday, Sony made the Time Attack mode for Motorstorm available for download via the PlayStation Store. Not much else needs to be said here – if you have Motorstorm, head on over to the the store and get your download. Enjoy.

• Motorstorm – Official website
• PlayStation Store – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: HOT SHOTS GOLF 2 & COOL BOARDERS

Yesterday, Sony added several bits of content to the PlayStation Store including downloadable versions of the (original) PlayStation titles Hot Shots Golf 2 and Cool Boarders. The downloads will run interested gamers $5.99 each and are compatible with both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable.

• PlayStation Store – Official website
• Hot Shots Golf 2 – Official website
• Cool Boarders – Official website

MAME32 .116.2 RELEASED

Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MAME32 v.116.2, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.116u1 is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME applies to this version of MAME32 as well.

Check out the official MAME32 page here for more details and the download links.

• MAME32 – Official home of MAME32

MAME V.116U2 RELEASED

The second “update” to v.116 of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator, version .116u2, is now available for download. This update centers on the continuing updates to the emulator’s Neo Geo drivers as well as the earliest stages of Capcom CPS-3 support. As usual, unless you’ve been having problems with your current installation of MAME, this update really doesn’t hold much for you and I’d advise sticking with v.116 until the next full release. The only real reason to upgrade would be if you’re interested in testing this build for the dev team, in which case you should head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.

The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.

• MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE

Back when Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare was first announced, I voiced some concerns that the game was going to get away from the feel of just being another soldier in favor of an experience more akin to Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter. I’m pleased to announce that having just watched the first gameplay footage of CoD4, it looks like Infinity Ward has indeed kept the game firmly fixed to it’s roots while simultaneously bringing it into the 21st century. Don’t believe me? Check it out below courtesy of GameTrailers.com;

Those of you interested in downloading the trailer you just watched in standard or high-definition should head over to the Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare video page at GameTrailers.com and pick your poison.

• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare – Official website
• Infinity Ward – Company website
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare – Video page at GameTrailers.com
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare: The Bog Rescue – Video at GameTrailers.com

Don’t mind the mess – We’re getting ready to move

Don’t mind the mess (or extremely old posts) – We’re just preparing to jump servers and as such are moving all of our old blogs over to WordPress format. If you’re currently looking for NYLatenite’s Gamer’s Paradise – (also known as nylatenite.com) – we’re still over at www.nylatenite.com. Thanks!

About

Here’s what you need to know about this wonderful little site that I call home…

This site is entirely based on the personal opinions of the editorial staff, internet reports, conjecture, rumors, and blatant idiocy. In no way should any report, news item, picture or description on this site ever be taken as 100 percent factual. To put it simply, if you think the 10 minutes of research I may do into a specific subject is enough for you to take something as reported at face value, you need to get your head examined.

As implied by the statement above, information on this website can, and probably will, contain numerous inaccuracies and as such should never be used to make any kind of an informed decision on a subject. Seriously. The nature of news on the internet and the business of reporting on rumors, ommissions and, let’s call it what it is, wild-ass guessing should never be mistaken as 100 percent accurate. While all attempts are made to report things as accurately as we can, things are always going to get missed or misunderstood in the shuffle.

In short, take everything on this site as what it is – news being reported by someone who is a fan of the video game industry, but who has no connections to the game industry or related businesses.

If you’ve seen something you feel is inaccurate or misinterperated, feel free to drop us a line at nylatenite@yahoo.com to let us know the truth of the matter. Thank you.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – BAND OF BUGS

This week’s Xbox Live Arcade title is a fresh release from the developers over at NinjaBee. Truth be told, I really don’t know what to expect from Band of Bugs, as the release announcement was pretty much the first time I’d ever even heard of the title. Based on the description of the game and the screenshots I’ve seen, I’m going to guess that Band of Bugs is going to be a turn based strategy game along the lines of Final Fantasy Tactics. It’s because I have no clue what to really expect from this one that I’m definitely suggesting you download and try the demo before you decide to purchase anything.

Title: Band of Bugs
Developer: NinjaBee
Publisher: NinjaBee
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 6/20/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone) – Mild Fantasy Violence
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Maal is an unhappy bug who needs structure and a purpose in his life, so he joins the royal army under the tutelage of the battle-hardened mantis warrior Tiernan. Now, he must begin his quest to save the Queen and the kingdom. NinjaBee’s Band of Bugs puts you in Maal’s shoes … er, footpads, and sets you in the middle of a fast-playing, accessible, tactical strategy game designed specifically for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. This turn-based tactics game expands the genre by providing a unique Level Editor, allowing gamers to create levels and play them online with friends.

• Tasty tactics: One of the few turn-based tactics games available, Band of Bugs provides gameplay deep enough to be satisfying to established fans of the genre, but friendly enough to appeal to all types of casual gamers.
• Multiple game modes: The game includes a story-based campaign and stand-alone missions as well as several unique multiplayer modes:  Elimination, Escape, and Capture.
• Create your own levels: The game has fifty levels, but also features a Level Editor allowing you to design custom scenarios and play them solo or over Xbox LIVE with your friends." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade release, I picked up Prince of Persia Classic, and while it certainly is a fun title, I can’t deny that there is a certain level of frustration attached to the title. All too often I’ll find myself dying due to the sensitivity of the controls and in a game that already features very frequent deaths, anything that adds to the total can be extremely unwelcome. I won’t go as far as saying that it ruins the game, but I will say that it’s something prospective purchasers should be aware of. It’s one of those games that I’d normally call a rental, but since we’re talking the Live Arcade here, it’s a take it or leave it situation. My advice is this – if you’re a big fan of 2D platformers and don’t mind a little frustration mixed in with your fun, then grab it. If you’re the type of person who either gets frustrated easily or isn’t a huge fan of retro style gameplay, you’ll probably want to give it a pass.

MICROSOFT SUES IMMERSION FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT

How’s this for a twist? Microsoft has filed a lawsuit against Immersion stating that the company is in breach of the contract the two companies signed when they settled Immersion’s vibration feedback lawsuit against Microsoft back in 2003. Apparently the dispute comes down to certain monetary compensation Microsoft was supposed to receive as part of their purchasing a stake in Immersion at the time.

Quite humorously, ArsTechnica is reporting that at least part of the dispute comes down to Microsoft feeling they are entitled to part of the money that Sony paid out to Immersion when they lost the patent infringement suit brought in regards to the haptic vibration technology used in the Dual Shock controller.

“The complaint details the Sublicense Agreement (SLA) that Microsoft and Immersion entered into in 2003, following the settlement between the two parties. According to the complaint, the SLA entitles Microsoft to a minimum $15 million payment as a result of Immersion’s settlement with Sony. Microsoft and Immersion apparently agreed to share the bounty that would stem from a court battle with Sony, and Microsoft says they have yet to be paid.” – ArsTechnica

The lawsuit shouldn’t have any bearing on Microsoft’s license to use Immersions vibration technology with the Xbox 360, so doomsayers on that end should probably be ignored. For more details on all the specifics, check out the full article over at ArsTechnica.

• Microsoft to Immersion: You owe us for the Sony settlement – ArsTechnica

KEN KUTARAGI OFFICIALLY STEPS DOWN AT SONY

As reported in a previous article, yesterday was Ken “Father of the PlayStation” Kutaragi’s last day as CEO and Chairman of Sony Computer Entertainment. While Kutaragi will be staying on as a “special advisor” to the company, the responsibility for SCE’s performance now fully falls to Kutaragi’s successor Kaz Hirai.

Good luck Kaz, you’re going to need it.

• Sony’s Ken Kutaragi Retires – nylatenite.com

PLAYSTATION 3 TEKKEN 5 ONLINE MULTIPLAYER COMPONENT PRICED

Just a quick note here – Kotaku is reporting that Sony has announced that there will be an online multiplayer mode for the downloadable PlayStation 3 version of Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection. The online multiplayer component will be an additional downloadable item and will cost $9.99 on top of Dark Resurrection’s normal cost of $19.99. While that may strike some as unreasonable, $30 isn’t an all-together outrageous price to ask for an online fighter.

That said, I still won’t be picking up this pack, because the fun of playing an online fighter is trash-talking your friends as you play it. Seeing how I’m still pretty much one of the only people I know who actually has bought a PlayStation 3, the add-on just doesn’t hold much interest for me.

• Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection – Product page at PlayStation.com
• Tekken 5 Online Confirmed, Priced For US – Kotaku

ELECTRONIC ARTS DELAYS SPORE UNTIL FISCAL YEAR 2009

Say it isn’t so! – Kotaku is reporting that Electronic Arts has confirmed that Spore’s release date has been pushed back from fiscal year 2008 to 2009, meaning the game will be hitting sometime after September 30th 2008. While that news is extremely disappointing for those of us who have been waiting for this game with baited breath, it’s at least better than the report that lead to Kotaku looking into the matter – a report in Game Informer magazine that stated that the game had been postponed “indefinitely”

Now, I’m a huge proponent of not rushing a game, so I can’t sit here and gripe about how long it’s taking for Will Wright and crew to get the game done – especially considering that based on what I’ve seen of the game so far, I’m still not clear on just what exactly the game will have to make it a truly unique experience. Sure, you can create your own creature from scratch, but just how much of that creation process will really matter in the long run? We’ve seen the game in the early ages of a race’s existence and a few snippets towards the end, but there’s been precious little about that all important middle.

Anyway, I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed that this is at least the last delay notice we’ll hear about Spore and that the game will be something just as addictive as Wright’s other works. Still, it’s time to take Spore off my “most anticipated” list as it’s just too far off now for me to feel any kind of real excitement over.

• Spore – Official Website
• Spore Slip Sliding Away – Kotaku

GEOMETRY WARS: RETRO EVOLVED NOW AVAILABLE FOR WINDOWS XP VIA STEAM

A short while back, Microsoft finally released Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved for the PC – unfortunately, the game was released as a Windows Vista only compatible product, meaning millions of PC users were locked out of the pure arcade goodness that is Geometry Wars.

Thankfully, Windows XP owners will cry no more… Bizarre Creations has released a Windows XP compatible version of Geometry Wars via Valve’s Steam download service. To celebrate the launch of a Geometry Wars that most PC users can experience, and to expand the cult of Geometry, the game will be priced at only $2.50 until June 22nd – after that date, the game’s price will jump to a still incredibly reasonable $3.95.

“The debut of Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved for Windows XP delivers a pixel-perfect recreation of the game that has captured the attention and acclaim of console gamers and critics alike. The game has received multiple awards for its old school shooter style remixed for the 21st century with next generation graphics and deep, modern gameplay.” – Eric Twelker, Steam News

Since I’ve long dreamed of putting Geometry Wars on my arcade cabinet, I quickly plunked down my $2.50 and downloaded the game. Having played a few rounds, I can say that the game is indeed the Geometry Wars we all know and love. On my rig (P4 2.53ghz, 1gb PC2700, GeForce 6800GT/256mb) I only noticed some slight slowdown while running at 1360 x 768 with anti-aliasing enabled, mainly at times when you used your smart bomb to clear the field of enemies, and was stable enough that I didn’t experience any crashes during my initial playtests. The game was also perfectly configured for both the wireless and wired Xbox 360 controller straight off the bat.

Bottom line? If you’re still wondering what all the fuss about Geometry Wars is about and your system meets the specifications for the game, you’re not going to find a better game for $2.50 – be sure to check it out.

• Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved (Windows XP version) – Steam
• Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved for Windows XP Debuts on Steam – Steam News
• Bizarre Creations – Company website
• Valve – Company website
• Steam – Valve’s digital distribution system

THIS WEEK’S RELEASES: JUNE 18TH – JUNE 24TH

Another week, another release list. Surprisingly, a lot of the titles on this week’s release list were on last week’s release list – and we’re not just talking about the B-List titles. We’ll avoid talking about the games we mentioned last week and stick with the new titles.

We’ll start off with DiRT for the Xbox 360 and Windows PC. Normally, this is a title that I would have just discounted as a standard off-road racer and passed on, but the recent Xbox Live demo showed that DiRT is a game with a lot of promise for fun. If you haven’t tried the demo yet, I’d strongly advise you to give it a shot – and might I add, play it in one of the two included cockpit modes for an added sense of realism.

Next up, we’ve got Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition. Advanced word on this one is that despite the game originally being designed for standard controllers, the control scheme Capcom has implemented for the game works exceptionally well. If you own a Wii and have never played RE4, this one should rate a rental at the very least.

The Transformers begin their movie-related march this week with Transformers: The Game (PSP), Transformers: Autobots (DS) and Transformers: Decepticons (DS). Given the fact that these are connected to the movie, I’d say proceed with extreme caution – more often than not these movie tie-ins aren’t even worth the effort to rent.

Finally, the Sims franchise continues it’s relentless assault on the human race as The Sims: Pet Stories (PC) makes it’s retail debut this week. As with The Sims: Life Stories, this one is a standalone product that’s designed to be especially friendly towards laptop computers.

Here’s what you can reasonably expect to see at retail this week – well, except for Model Train 3D which has pretty much reached the same comical week to week non-release status as our old friend Air Cargo Pilot.

• Hot Brain: Fire Up Your Mind – PSP – 6/19/2007
• PQ 2 – PSP – 6/19/2007
• Puzzle Scape – PSP – 6/19/2007
• Time Ace – DS – 6/19/2007
• Zendoku – DS – 6/19/2007
• Brothers In Arms: War Stories – DS – 6/20/2007
• DiRT – 360 – 6/20/2007
• DiRT – PC – 6/20/2007
• Dungeon Maker: Hunting Ground – PSP – 6/20/2007
• Guild 2: The Pirates of the Seas – PC – 6/20/2007
• Hitman Trilogy – PC – 6/20/2007
• Hitman Trilogy – PS2 – 6/20/2007
• Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition – WII – 6/20/2007
• Sim City DS – DS – 6/20/2007
• The Adventures of Darwin – PS2 – 6/20/2007
• The Sims: Pet Stories – PC – 6/20/2007
• Transformers: Autobots – DS – 6/20/2007
• Transformers: Decepticons – DS – 6/20/2007
• Transformers: The Game – PSP – 6/20/2007
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Trading Card Game – DS – 6/21/2007
• Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing – PSP – 6/21/2007
• Jeopardy – PC – 6/21/2007
• Jewels of Cleopatra – PC – 6/21/2007
• Terror Strike – PC – 6/21/2007
• Wheel of Fortune – PC – 6/21/2007
• Model Train 3D – PC – 6/23/2007
• Taito Legends 2 – PC – 6/23/2007

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

MAME32 .116.1 RELEASED

Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MAME32 v.116.1, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.116u1 is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME applies to this version of MAME32 as well.

Check out the official MAME32 page here for more details and the download links.

• MAME32 – Official home of MAME32

MAME V.116U1 RELEASED

The first “update” to v.116 of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator, version .116u1, is now available for download. This update centers on several background changes, including a full re-write of the Neo Geo drivers. As usual, unless you’ve been having problems with your current installation of MAME, this update really doesn’t hold much for you and I’d advise sticking with v.116 until the next full release. The only real reason to upgrade would be if you’re interested in testing this build for the dev team, in which case you should head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.

The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.

• MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: MERCENARIES 2: WORLD IN FLAMES

I’ve never made a secret of the fact that Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction was one of my favorite games of the last console generation. It was just one of those titles that seemed to have everything – open ended gameplay, massive explosions, vehicle combat, more massive explosions, a load of fun whenever you played it and of course, some really freaking massive explosions. It was, in short, a masterpiece of directed mayhem.

It’s because of that love for Mercenaries that I’m thrilled to announced that GameTrailers.com has posted the debut trailer for Mercenaries 2: World in Flames, and you can watch it right here. You know, the more things change, the more they stay the same – while Pandemic Studios may have found a new publisher in the form of Electronic Arts, it looks like everything else has remained pretty much the same… in other words, things still blow up reeeeeeal nicely.

While some of the footage may look a little rough around the edges, it’s still early on and I’m sure the game will go through quite a bit more polishing before release. So far I like what I see – I like it a lot.

For more information on Mercenaries 2, be sure to check out the Mercenaries 2 official website. Those of you who want to download the trailer you just watched in standard or high-definition should head over to GameTrailers.com.

Mercenaries 2: World in Flames is currently slated to release on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2 and Windows PC some time in 2008.

• Mercenaries 2: World in Flames – Official website
• Mercenaries 2 video page – GameTrailers.com
• Pandemic Studios – Company website

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: PROJECT GOTHAM RACING 4: THE SNOW IN… NURBURGRING?

Bizarre Creations has released the next sneak peak of their upcoming Xbox 360 racer Project Gotham Racing 4. Last time, they showed us what the rain in St. Petersburg would bring – this time around, they’re treating us to snowfall in Nurburgring. Looks like Bizarre plans on making the environment’s ability to change driving conditions a big part of the PGR experience. Check it out below courtesy of the fine folks over at GameTrailers.com.

Hopefully the release of PGR4 will also result in Geometry Wars 3 being brought to the masses. Project Gotham Racing 4 will be an Xbox 360 exclusive and is currently slated to release some time this holiday season.

• Project Gotham Racing 4 – Official website
• Bizarre Creations – Company website
• Project Gotham Racing 4 – Video page at GameTrailers.com
• Lazy Day Trailers: The rain in… St. Petersburg? – nylatenite.com

GRAND THEFT AUTO IV DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT NOW XBOX 360 EXCLUSIVE

Call it another blow to Sony’s chances for a good holiday season…

Some time ago, Rockstar Games announced that not only would Grand Theft Auto IV be coming to both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, but that each title would be getting it’s own exclusive downloadable content for the game sometime after launch.

Apparently, that plan has been changed. GamesIndustry.biz is reporting that Take-Two Interactive, Rockstar’s parent company, has confirmed that only the Xbox 360 version of the game will be seeing any exclusive content – meaning those players wanting the full GTAIV experience will need to play the game on Microsoft’s console.

"Talk of an exclusive deal began following the release of Take-Two’s Q2 financial report on Tuesday. The report stated that the episodic content would be released on 360 during the 2008 fiscal year – with no mention of PlayStation 3.

Now a company representative has told GI.biz, “The Grand Theft Auto IV episodic content is exclusive to Xbox 360.”" – GamesIndustry.biz

My take? This is going to hurt Sony and hurt them bad. For those still waiting on the sidelines of the console wars, this could be a determining factor in their decision to go with the 360 or PS3 and I’m quite sure gamers who have both systems may now lean towards the 360’s offering regardless of console preference.

Is there a chance that any good news can come out of this for the folks over at Sony? Sure there is – There’s been no explanation of exactly what Microsoft and Rockstar have agreed to, and given Rockstar’s past record with exclusivity agreements, there’s always a chance the content will eventually find it’s way to the PS3 as well. I just wouldn’t expect the PS3 version to have anything the 360 one doesn’t.

• GTA IV episodic content exclusive to 360, confirms Take-Two – GamesIndustry.biz
• Grand Theft Auto IV – Official website
• Take-Two Interactive – Company website
• Rockstar Games – Company website

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPGRADED TO V1.81

Yesterday, Sony released the latest upgrade to the PlayStation 3’s system software. The v1.81 doesn’t include anything massively eye opening, unlike the v1.80 update which introduced DVD, PS1 and PS2 upscaling to the system, but rather focuses on the smaller refinements you’d expect from an interim update. Let’s take a look at the current update notes as shown at the official PlayStation 3 system update page;

The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 1.81 (with 1.80) update includes the following:

Upscaling game or DVD output
You can now upscale the video content of PlayStation® format software, PlayStation®2 format software, and DVDs to HD resolution.

Copying saved data to a memory card
You can now copy saved data from PlayStation® format software and PlayStation®2 format software to a memory card or a memory card (8MB) (for PlayStation®2).

Using the DLNA client feature
You can now display images or play music or video files that are stored on a personal computer or digital video recorder with DLNA Media Server functionality over a network.

Printing Images
You can now connect a USB printer to print images.

Using remote play outside the home (via the Internet)
You can now use remote play over the Internet.

Other new or revised features in version 1.81 (with 1.80):

Settings
[BD 1080p 24 Hz Output (HDMI)] has been added as an option under [BD/DVD Settings].
[RGB Full Range (HDMI)] has been added as an option under [Display Settings].
New for 1.81: The method of setting [RGB Full Range (HDMI)] under [Display Settings] has been improved.
[Y Pb/Cb Pr/Cr Super-White (HDMI)] has been added as an option under [Display Settings].
[Bitmapping (Super Audio CD)] has been added as an option under [Music Settings].
The [Test Camera] option under [Accessory Settings] has been changed to [Camera Device Settings].
[Printer Settings] has been added.
[Media Server Connection] has been added as an option under [Network Settings]

Music
You can now edit CD information.

Photo
A new type of slideshow display pattern has been added.
You can now use zoom display for images.
You can now trim images.

Video
Super-White and x.v.Color output are now supported.
Downscaled output of Blu-ray Discs is now supported. When 720p is selected as the video output setting of the PS3™ system, Blu-ray Discs that were recorded in 1080p or 1080i resolution can be played in 720p resolution.

Game
You can now move copy-prohibited saved data for PlayStation® format software and PlayStation®2 format software to a PS3™ system.

Network
The options menu items under [Download Management] have been changed.

Friends
[Display Photo] has been added to the voice / video chat options menu.

Other
New for 1.81: The stability of the network connection used during gameplay has been improved for some PlayStation®2 format software titles that support online gaming.

For more information on any of the above features, head over to the official PlayStation 3 system software update page.

• System Software Update – PlayStation.com

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: SOUL CALIBUR IV

Namco Bandai has announced that Soul Calibur IV, the latest installment of the Soul Edge/Blade/Calibur series is now in production and will be appearing on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. While details are sketchy at the moment, they did release a teaser trailer for the game… which you’re about to watch.

No further official information on Soul Calibur IV is available at this time.

• Namco Bandai Games – Company website
• Soul Edge series – Wikipedia entry
• Soul Calibur IV video page – GameTrailers.com

XBOX 360 PROJECT SYLPHEED DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Square-Enix’s story-based space shooter Project Sylpheed for the Xbox 360 is now available to Xbox Live members in all regions except Taiwan and Korea. Download size is approximately 613mb.

• Project Sylpheed – Official website
• Square-Enix – Company website

GEARS OF WAR TO GET TITLE UPDATE TODAY

Epic Games has announced that they will be making a title update to Gears of War today via the Xbox Live Marketplace. The main focus of the update will be the addition of 250 achievement points for the previously released downloadable “Hidden Fronts” map pack and some fixes to the Roadie Run feature which should prevent some of the issues with taking cover when you don’t mean to.

Here’s the press release from Epic describing what changes players can expect to see following the update;

“Thursday, June 14, at 2 a.m. GMT, the stakes get even higher as Gears of War releases eight new Achievements for the “Annex” gametype and the “Hidden Fronts” Multiplayer Map Pack on Xbox LIVE®.

In addition to adding new Achievements, worth a total of 250 points, Gears of War developer Epic has improved the Roadie Run controls so players have greater control of their movement and can better annihilate their pestilent enemies. The title update will also help squash multiplayer exploits and provide general housekeeping.

For those who have yet to man up and join the battle, the “Annex” gametype is now available for free and the “Hidden Fronts” Multiplayer Map Pack is available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 Microsoft Points. All four multiplayer maps will be made available at no cost over Xbox LIVE on Sept. 3, 2007.

Release Notes

• New Achievements added! Eight new achievements worth a total of 250 points created for playing Annex and the Hidden Fronts Multiplayer Map Pack
• Improved Roadie Run to reduce getting snagged on cover
• Tweaked up the amount of damage done by the Lancer Assault Rifle in multiplayer
• Fixed split-screen players interrupting the other player’s actions when they die
• Stopped Annex scoring whenever a “Connection Error” dialog box is displayed
• Reduced the duration that corpses remain visible when hosting an Annex match
• Reduced the range of possible Annex bleed-out times selectable by host
• Addressed a number of multiplayer exploits
• Addressed other general housekeeping“ – Epic Games

• Gears of War – Official website
• Epic Games – Company website
• Gamers, Ready Your Weapons. Stop. New Gears of War®
  Multiplayer Achievements Added. Stop. – Press release

MAME32 .116 RELEASED

MAME32, the Windows GUI port of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator, has now made the jump to v.116, incorporating all of the changes seen in the most recent build of it’s command line based parent.

Check out the official MAME32 page here for more details and the download links.

• MAME32 – Official home of MAME32

MAME V.116 RELEASED

The latest version of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator is now available. Version 1.16 incorporates all of the changes made in the last series of interim updates, so if you were having problems with anything in v.115, this new version may be the answer to your problems.

The updated files can be found at the official MAME page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.

• MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team
• MAME v.116 "What’s New" File – MAMEDev

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – PRINCE OF PERSIA CLASSIC

Once again the Xbox Live Arcade is looking back in time for inspiration this week as Ubisoft brings us a re-imagining of Broderbund’s 1989 classic Prince of Persia in the form of Prince of Persia Classic.

While many may recognize the title from the more recent games in the series, long before the game was reincarnated as a 3D action trilogy during the sixth console generation, it was a highly successful 2D side scrolling title that graced many of the platforms of it’s day. It’s that older game that’s being given the high-definition treatment along with a few new surprises.

As with the original, you take the role of the prince as he attempts to save the princess from the evil usurper Jaffar. Jaffar has not only claimed the throne of Persia for himself, but has given the princess only 60 minutes to make a fateful choice – marry him or die. Yes, the game isn’t about surviving to the last level, it’s about completing the game in the time provided. While you may have an unlimited number of lives to get the job done, the guards, traps and puzzles that you’ll encounter can slow you down enough to make completing the game impossible.

Is the game worth the 800 points ($10) that the Live Marketplace is asking for the title? Well, I’m going to guess that it’s going to really come down to how well the game controls. Getting through the game in the time provided is largely dependent on being able to control the prince effortlessly, and given the control issues many Live Arcade titles have had, PoPC could very easily become an exercise in frustration. My advice is to download and play the demo before you make any kind of a purchasing decision.

Title: Prince of Persia Classic
Developer: Gameloft
Publisher: Ubisoft
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 6/13/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: T (Teen) – Blood & Violence
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Prince of Persia® Classic is a remake of the original 1989 title, often referred to as THE game that kick-started the platforming genre. This new version features updated character designs, animations, visuals, and lighting effects, all transforming the game into a fresh, close to 3-dimensional look. New traps, puzzles, enemies, and achievements add to the excitement. It’s time to save the princess from her terrible fate!

• Updated and enhanced: All the character designs, animations, controls, and visuals have been completely updated to stunning effect.
• New content: In addition to the graphic refresh, new puzzles, enemies, and even helpful checkpoints further augment the classic experience.
• Athleticism and swordplay: Run, jump, and climb, showcasing your character’s athleticism, and buckle your swash with exciting sword battles.
• Three game modes: Normal Mode requires you to complete the game as fast as possible, with saves at the end of each level. Time Attack has you starting from the beginning if you fail to save the princess after the allotted sixty minutes. And Survival Mode challenges you to complete the entire game without dying. Good luck.
• Achievements: Twelve achievements are available, ranging from the simple (finding the sword in the first level) to the truly difficult (finding all the potions in the game, or finishing the game without dying)." – Xbox.com

Those of you interested in my thoughts on Pac-Man Championship Edition should check out my earlier post on the topic entitled First Impressions: Pac-Man Championship Edition. For those of you who don’t feel like reading through it, here’s the short version – let’s just say I really enjoy the game, but really wish they had also included a non-timed game mode.

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: ALL PRO FOOTBALL 2K8

2K Sports has finally given us our first look at All Pro Football 2K8 in action, and I’ve got to say, from what I’ve seen in the video you’re about to watch, it appears to be a mixed bag as far as quality goes. There are moments when the trailer makes you think the game will have all the magic we’ve come to expect from the 2K Football series, and then there are times where you’d swear that NFL2K5 looked better.

The true determining factor will be how the game looks from the standard play screens rather than the apparent in-game replay scenes we’re treated to here. Regardless of what I may have seen that disappointed me in this video, I still have high hopes for All Pro Football 2K8 – as I’m sure 2K Sports does. One thing I do feel the need to note here is that I believe that 2K is only going to get one chance to get it right with APF2K8 – if the first game in the series is a letdown, I really can’t see people coming back for a second helping anytime soon.

All Pro Football 2K8 is scheduled to be released later this summer on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

• All Pro Football 2K8 – Official website
• All Pro Football 2K8 video page – Gametrailers.com

SONY FINALLY GETS IT’S OWN COMPANY BLOG

Yes Virginia, it appears that Sony finally got the message that they needed to join the rest of us in here in the 21st century. After numerous complaints by just about everyone regarding Sony’s lack of communication with it’s customers, the company has finally opened a corporate blog for the PlayStation line of products. It’s about damn time too.

While the opening posts of the blog seem to show that Sony finally gets it – that they finally understand that they can’t just dictate to people what they’re going to want and that they need to keep their customers up to date on what’s going on with the PlayStation Network and PlayStation Store, the real question here is whether or not Sony truly understands the market and plans on embracing the blog concept, or if they’re just trying to appear “hip” once more.

If they can keep the relative candor shown in the introductory post and avoid making any more ridiculous claims, as the early posts and quote below show they at least are making an attempt at doing, than this could be an excellent start for Sony as far as turning things around for the PlayStation 3. If it is just another lame publicity stunt, you can probably expect it to eventually backfire as badly as the “All I want for Christmas is a PSP” viral campaign did. That, my friends, would be a damn shame.

“It’s with enthusiasm, eagerness and, honestly, a little bit of relief that we lift the cover on our first official Sony Computer Entertainment America company blog – welcome and sorry for the wait.

PlayStation.Blog is a bit of work in progress, we see it as a place where we can share with you our company’s collective insights, opinions and perspectives on all things related to SCEA, PlayStation and the industry we play in.

At the moment, we’re thinking about sharing all sorts of things here, ranging from product news and title announcements to developer updates and industry opinion posts – all of which will come straight from the people here inside SCEA who are working, thinking and playing with this stuff every day. Look to the categories on the sidebar for some initial thoughts we have on future post themes.

Now, what we’ve learned, perhaps the hard way, is that a blog like this is really about you and the things you want to hear, share and discuss with us. With that in mind, you’ll notice that comments are enabled – and encouraged – so tell us what you want to see here and we’ll do our best to make it happen. And yes, like most blogs, we have a comment policy, please just keep this in mind when you’re leaving a comment.

We imagine it may take us a short while to find our pace with this, but bear with us as we get underway and we promise we’ll quickly make this blog a valuable stop in your daily info hunt for PlayStation news.

Like we’ve said, we’re excited to finally have a platform for conversation and connection. Much more is in the works too, so we hope you’ll consider sticking around, kicking the tires of our shiny new blog and sharing what you think. – Patrick Seybold, Senior Manager – Public Relations, SCEA

Welcome to the blogosphere Sony, I’m looking forward to having an easier time getting a hold of PlayStation news to report.

• PlayStation.blog – Official SCEA PlayStation blog
• PlayStation.com – Official PlayStation website
• Welcome, You’ve Been Waiting – PlayStation.blog
• Sony: PSP Viral Campaign “Poorly Executed” – Next Generation

THIS WEEK’S RELEASES: JUNE 11TH – JUNE 17TH

Unless you’re a Wii or handheld system owner, it’s going to be a very light week at retail this time around. We’ll start this week’s post off with Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree for the Nintendo Wii (obviously). While Big Brain Academy on the Nintendo DS didn’t have quite the same following that Brain Age did, it’s sure to see a decent number of sales based on the premise alone.

The Wii also gets it’s first installment of Electronic Arts Sims franchise as The Sims 2: Pets makes it’s Wii debut this week. I’m quite sure many more Sims titles will follow in it’s footsteps.

While the PSP gets it’s share of brain teasers with PQ2 and Puzzle Scape, the big focus on the PSP this week is sure to be Rainbow Six: Vegas. It should be interesting to see just how well the concept ports over to Sony’s portable.

Finally, Nintendo DS owners get a spiritual sequel to Konami’s 1982 arcade classic Time Pilot with the company’s latest title Time Ace. Given my love of the original Time Pilot, I may just have to give this one a rental and see how it stacks up in comparison.

Past that, we have the usual bunch of throwaway titles this week, including the Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer movie adaption on just about every active console. Here’s everything you can expect to see at retail over the course of the week;

• Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree – WII – 6/12/2007
• Diner Dash: Flow on the Go – PC – 6/12/2007
• Playfirst Play All Day Pack – PC – 6/12/2007
• Scarface – WII – 6/12/2007
• The Sims 2: Pets – WII – 6/12/2007
• UFO Afterlight – PC – 6/12/2007
• Call of Juarez – PC – 6/13/2007
• Monster Madness: Battle for Suburbia – 360 – 6/13/2007
• Monster Madness: Battle for Suburbia – PC – 6/13/2007
• Naruto Ultimate Ninja 2 – PS2 – 6/13/2007
• PQ 2 – PSP – 6/13/2007
• Puzzle Scape – PSP – 6/13/2007
• Rainbow Six: Vegas – PSP – 6/13/2007
• Raw Danger – PS2 – 6/13/2007
• Tenchu Z – 360 – 6/13/2007
• Time Ace – DS – 6/13/2007
• Zendoku – DS – 6/13/2007
• Model Train 3D – PC – 6/15/2007
• Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer – 360 – 6/16/2007
• Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer – DS – 6/16/2007
• Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer – PS2 – 6/16/2007
• Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer – PS3 – 6/16/2007
• Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer – WII – 6/16/2007
  

Please keep in mind these are only estimated release dates and could change at any time.

THE ART OF FORZA MOTORSPORT 2: CUSTOM CARS

I’ve been playing quite a bit of Forza Motorsport 2 on the Xbox 360 lately, and while the game itself certainly is a load of fun (despite the lack of an in-car cockpit mode – and no, I won’t stop harping on that), the thing that I’ve been the most fascinated by is the incredible custom artwork some players have already come up with. I can’t begin to imagine the patience making some of these designs must require, as I gave up on my first custom paint job attempt after about 30 minutes and only a few shapes.

Perhaps the greatest feature of the game is the fact that the individuals who have spent the time to create these great designs can then put them up for sale via the Forza Motorsport 2 Auction House. Say what you want about the time spent coming up with some of these designs, but I can guarantee that the people who made them are swimming in credits right now and can easily afford to purchase just about any other custom painted car they may see. Doesn’t seem as much of a waste of time now, does it?

As for the rest of us – you know, the ones who couldn’t make a decent design to save our lives, we can spend our time racing for credits so we can also drive around in a car that amazes our friends. Since no article about the custom paint jobs available online would be complete without some examples, I’ve posted some pictures of the best cars I’ve managed to come out of the auction house with.

Click on the below pictures for larger sized images.

I guess the ultimate compliment I can give some of the designs I’ve seen is that I can barely believe they were made using the in-game vinyl decal system. To all those custom car painters out there, I salute you – keep up the great work!

• Forza Motorsport 2 – Official website
• Forza Motorsport 2 Auction House (View Only) – ForzaMotorsport.net

SNK TO END SUPPORT FOR NEO GEO CONSOLES

I remember the first time I saw a Neo Geo AES at retail. It was back in 1992 or 1993 – I was in my local Software Etc looking for some new games to purchase and I noticed that large black Neo Geo box on the wall. Now, I had heard about SNK’s system, but until that day I had never actually seen one out in the wild. I recall looking over the packaging and being really impressed by the quality of the arcade style controllers as well as being intrigued by the idea of a console that could provide the exact same experience one would get in the arcade.

Ultimately, two things stopped me from buying the AES that day… the fact that SNK didn’t exactly have the deepest catalog of games and more importantly, the fact that each game for the system cost $199.99 apiece. Needless to say, I never purchased an AES, though I search Ebay listings for a deal on them from time to time.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about the AES is just how long SNK has continued to support the console. Call it loyalty, or maybe the fact that the cartridges were pretty much the same as the ones they used in the arcade, virtually eliminating conversion costs, but since the AES’ inception, most of SNK”s arcade releases though 2004 were brought over to the console – including ones sold directly by SNK following the console’s discontinuation in 1997. In addition, the company still offers repair and maintenance services on the console as well as all the other systems and accessories in the Neo Geo line (such as the Neo Geo CD, Neo Geo Pocket, etc.) – or at least they will until the end of August.

According to Insert Credit, a notice on SNK Playmore’s Japanese website has announced that effective August 31st, 2007 they will cease all support for the Neo Geo line of consoles, handhelds and accessories. Apparently it’s becoming harder and harder for the company to obtain replacement parts for the consoles and as such, they’ve decided to finally end all support for the consoles.

• SNK Playmore – Official U.S. website
• Neo Geo (Console) – Wikipedia entry
• SNK Playmore to stop maintenance support for Neo Geo – Insert Credit

GAMEFLY ANNOUNCES RATE INCREASE

Gamefly has announced that effective June 18th, they will be raising the rates for all of their rental plans by one dollar. First off, let me say that as far as I know, I had nothing to do with this one despite my earlier statement that if it were to make them start putting the cardboard inserts back in the mailers, I’d gladly pay $1 more a month for service. Chalk it up to coincidence or more likely the ever growing cost of sending out their mailers, but I think we can all agree that Gamefly isn’t hanging on my every word. (So there JG! – nyaa)

“At GameFly, we are committed to providing excellent service at prices that enable you to play all the games you want economically. However, the May 14th postal rate hike on “flat” mailers, as well as the higher cost of new console games, has significantly increased our cost of doing business.

In order to continue improving our service while facing higher external costs, we’re raising the monthly fee on all membership plans by $1. All accounts billed on or after June 18, 2007 will be charged at the new rate. Since we opened our doors nearly five years ago, this is the first time we’ve ever raised the price of our most popular two-game plan.” – Gamefly

Like the statement says, it looks like the recent increase in postal rates is threatening to put a dent in Gamefly’s business plan, and they need some way to make the cash back. It’s not all bad news from Gamefly though – the company is also advising that anyone who wants to sign up for a long term membership prior to the rate change can do so at a discount of 20% off the original plan price. That’s a great deal for anyone who has the spare cash to put down all at once, but for me, I guess I’ll just have to eat that extra dollar.

GAMEFLY CONFIRMS MISSING CARDBOARD INSERTS

Catching up on an item from last week’s news, I heard back from Gamefly regarding the recent lack of protective cardboard inserts in their mailers. According to the company they are testing the idea of removing the cardboard inserts when shipping out game rentals.

"Thank you for contacting GameFly. We are in the process of testing the shipment of items without cardboard. We request that you simply return the item as you received it. If we can be of further assistance, please let us know." – Gamefly Customer Service

My guess is this is part of a cost cutting move on Gamefly’s part as many of these rental services report that their biggest expenses are shipping charges. With a little bit of luck, the price increase in our next article means that they’ve decided that not using the inserts just isn’t the way to go.

• Gamefly stops using protective cardboard mailers? – nylatenite.com

XBOX 360 TENCHU Z DOWNLOAD NOW AVAILABLE

Two demos in one day – who would have thought it. A demo of From Software’s Tenchu Z for the Xbox 360 is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo weighs in at 641.80mb and is available to all Xbox Live members in all regions except Asia.

• Tenchu Z – Official website

XBOX 360 SHADOWRUN DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

Microsoft has made an Xbox 360 demo of it’s hybrid PC/360 FPS Shadowrun available to all Xbox Live members via the Xbox Live Marketplace. The demo is available in all regions and weighs in at approximately 1.07gb.

• Shadowrun – Official website

MAME32 .115.4 RELEASED

Following in the footsteps of the latest MAME update, MAME32 v.115.4, the Windows GUI port of MAME v.115u4 is now available. The same advice I gave about the latest build of MAME apply to this version of MAME32 as well.

Check out the official MAME32 page here for more details and the download links.

• MAME32 – Official home of MAME32

FIRST IMPRESSIONS : PAC-MAN CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION

Normally I wait until the following week to talk about an Xbox Live Arcade, but this week I’ve decided to break with tradition as there are a few things I feel need to be said about Pac-Man Championship Edition for the Xbox 360.

First and foremost, let me say that I love what they’ve done with the gameplay – specifically the “Championship” game mode. If you like Pac-Man, I can just about guarantee you’re going to find something to like in this game. It’s got all the charm of the original Pac-Man with enough twists and enhancements to make it feel “new”. This is one of those rare Live Arcade games that I feel is actually worth the 800 point ($10) price tag. Simply put, unlike so many other recent attempts by Namco to cash in on the Pac-Man name, this one actually does the original justice.

That’s not to say that there aren’t some problems here though. As can be expected, the Xbox 360 controller’s d-pad once again proves that it’s ill suited to being used as a 4-way arcade controller. While Namco seems to have managed to improved it’s response somewhat, when the game is moving hyper-fast and you need to make sharp turns, it’s going to let you down.

While that’s the same thing we’ve come to expect from any of the Pac-Man titles on Xbox Live Arcade, the second problem I’ve encountered is one that I really didn’t expect to find. Every single game mode in Pac-Man Championship Edition uses a 5 or 10 minute timer to control the pace of the action. Unfortunately, when you’re not playing in a competition, what this often does is cut you off just as you were beginning to really get into the groove of the game. Let me tell you, nothing is more annoying than when an arcade game cuts you off while you still have 5 lives left. At the very least, Namco should have included a version of the Championship Mode that wasn’t dependent on a timer. It’s an omission that takes a bit of fun away from what is otherwise a must-buy title.

In closing, I can only hope that at some point we’ll see some kind of (hopefully free) downloadable content that will add this missing mode and make this otherwise excellent game feel complete. Bottom line? I’d call this one a “Buy” for most Pac-Man fans and a “Try first” for everyone else.

• Pac-Man Championship Edition – Xbox.com

MAME V.115U4 RELEASED

The latest “update” version of the Multiple Arcade Machine Emulator, version .115u4, is now available for download. This update centers on several background updates including the continuing effort to simplify the emulator’s program code. As usual, unless you’ve been having problems with your current installation of MAME, this update really doesn’t hold much for you, so I’d advise sticking with v.115 until the next full release. However, if you’re interested in testing the current build, head on over to MAME Testers to find out how to get started.

The updated emulator files can be found at the official MAME page at Mamedev.org. You can Click here to see the full list of what’s new in this update.

• MAMEDev – Official site of the MAME development team

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – PAC-MAN CHAMPIONSHIP EDITION

Yup, it’s a new Pac-Man game from Toru Iwatani himself… and his last. In addition to announcing Pac-Man Championship Edition for Xbox Live Arcade yesterday, Iwatani also announced that he’s retiring from Namco.
Don’t feel bad for Iwatani though – he’ll most likely focus on his other passion – teaching budding game developers the art of the game.

Getting back to the subject at hand, Pac-Man Championship Edition is Pac-Man with multiple twists – new maps, new graphics, new features and more. Unfortunately, you’ll probably still have to play it using the standard Xbox 360 controller, so there are some downsides here too.

The other thing to note? The game comes in at 800 points ($10), so you may want to check out the demo before you commit to buying anything.

Title: Pac-Man Championship Edition
Developer: Namco Bandai Games, Inc
Publisher: Namco Bandai Games, Inc
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 6/06/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

“PAC-MAN returns in this enhanced version of the all time classic videogame! PAC-MAN Championship Edition™ has many new and unique gameplay features, but still spotlights the big yellow PAC-MAN we all know and love. Experience the evolution of PAC-MAN and play it now!

• New and unique features: The enhanced version now features constantly evolving mazes, a time limit, and six different game modes.
• Enhanced environments: Graphics and sound have been fully enhanced in this new version of the classic game.
• Fun challenges: You’ll have to practice hard and play well to conquer the increased gameplay speed! Remember, this is the Championship Edition so you know it will provide a good challenge.” – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade title, Mad Tracks, I didn’t even bother downloading the demo. I’ve heard nothing but bad things about the game and with gaming time being as limited as it is, I just don’t have time to waste on garbage.

RUMOR SMASHED: GEARS OF WAR NOT GOING MULTIPLATFORM

If you’ve been hanging around the internet water cooler, you may have heard a rumor that Epic Games is so pissed off with Microsoft at the moment that they’re considering bringing Gears of War to the PlayStation 3… well, in a post on Gears’ official forums, Epic Vice President Mark Rein decided to set the record straight once and for all;

“This story is complete bull****. I emailed the site and asked them to take it down. We’re very happy with our relationship with Microsoft. If it weren’t for them Gears wouldn’t be the huge hit it has become.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

According to this article over at Kotaku, the rumor began on the forums of a small PlayStation 3 site called “The Sony Protection Group“and even went so far as to claim Cliff “CliffyB” Bleszinski had threatened to move the series to the PlayStation 3. Needless to say, as with anything on the internet, the story continued to grow from there.

Not content with just debunking the rumor over at the Gears of War forums, Rein also sent a little nasty-gram to the staff of the site expressing his displeasure;

“Please remove that complete b******* story about Gears going to PS3. Cliff Bleszinski has NEVER been quoted as “threatening Microsoft to port over Gears to the PS3″. We’re very happy with our relationship with Microsoft and are extremely grateful of everything they’ve done to help make Gears the huge success it has become. Part of that success came from being an Xbox 360 exclusive FIRST PARTY title and Microsoft getting behind it in a huge way. They’re the publisher of Gears of War and, unless they say otherwise, there is no chance Gears is coming to PS3. For PS3 we have Unreal Tournament 3 and it’s going to be fantastic.” – Mark Rein

So there you have it folks, there’s no double-talk or hidden meanings in this one – it looks like Gears of War will be remaining an Xbox 360 exclusive. While I don’t think it’s the case here, one thing I often wonder when I hear wild stories such as this is whether or not the sites in question run these kind of stories knowing full well that they’re false, but are hoping that the traffic the story is bound to create will increase their readership.

• Gears of War coming to the PS3?! – Official Gears of War forums
• Could Gears of War2 go multiplat? – Sony Protection Group Forums
• GoW Definitely Not Coming to PS3 – Kotaku

Don’t mind the mess – We’re getting ready to move

Don’t mind the mess (or extremely old/missing posts) – We’re just preparing to jump servers and as such are moving all of our old blogs over to WordPress format. If you’re currently looking for NYLatenite’s Gamer’s Paradise – (also known as nylatenite.com) – we’re still over at www.nylatenite.com. Thanks!

GAMEFLY STOPS USING PROTECTIVE CARDBOARD MAILERS?

I think everyone who follows this site regularly knows I’m generally a pretty big fan of the service Gamefly provides, but I really have to wonder what the hell is going on over at their headquarters following their latest move.

About a week back, I received my rental of Dead Rising for the Xbox 360 in the mail and noticed that the usual hard cardboard protective sleeve the games are sent in was missing. At the time, I figured it was just a mistake and that there hadn’t been a change in Gamefly shipping procedures…

Moving right along, this afternoon, Forza 2 arrived in the mail and once again there was no protective cardboard sleeve… what the game did have was a noticeable scratch across the surface of the disc. While I haven’t had a chance to see if the game is affected in any way by the scratch, it’s certainly something that really shouldn’t be happening.

As a long time member of Gamefly, and as someone who regularly buys games from them, I can only see this as hurting their business model in the long run. Why would I want to buy games from them that I know are probably not going to be in anything close to ideal condition? More importantly, given their somewhat slow shipping times, I sure as hell won’t be willing to put up with delays from them when they have to replace games that are scratched and unplayable while I’m paying their monthly fees.

You know, if the added shipping cost of using cardboard sleeves is killing them, then raise the damn monthly rate by $1 a month or the like, but don’t take your core service and diminish it. Better yet, here’s an idea – stop running those annoying commercials during every single commercial break on some channels. Guess what? If I’m watching the show, odds are I saw the first one – save your money for keeping me as a member once I join.

I’ll be shooting an e-mail over to their customer support team once I determine whether or not the game is damaged, and I’ll be sure to report back on any reply I get. For now though, you may want to keep this in mind if you plan on using their services.