GUITAR HERO III DROPKICK MURPHY TRACK PACK NOW AVAILABLE

In honor of Saint Patrick's Day, a free song pack from Dropkick Murphy for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of Guitar Hero III is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store.

• Guitar Hero III – Official website 

GUITAR HERO III FREE TRACK – “DREAM ON” – FEB 16TH – 18TH ONLY

Just a quick note here – to celebrate the announcement of Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, Activision Blizzard is offering a free download of the band's "Dream On" for use with Guitar Hero III to all PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 owners from February 16th through the 18th via the PlayStation Store and Xbox Live Marketplace.

"Santa Monica, CA – February 15, 2008 – Fire up the fret board, crank the amp to 11 and get ready to rock this way with Activision, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero®: Aerosmith®, the first game built around the legendary music of America's Greatest Rock 'N Roll Band: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer.  Slated for release this June, this latest installment from the franchise with the #1 best-selling video game in 2007, puts players in the shoes of Perry (guitar), Whitford (guitar) and Hamilton (bass), as they rock out alongside frontman Tyler and drummer Kramer.  Gamers will experience Aerosmith's GRAMMY® winning career, from their first gig to becoming rock royalty, in a way that no other entertainment vehicle offers. 

To celebrate this historic, ground-breaking collaboration, Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock fans will have the opportunity to download and jam to Aerosmith's "Dream On." The song will be available for free from February 16-18 on Xbox LIVE^® Marketplace for Xbox 360^® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®Store for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.  For more information, please visit www.guitarhero.com." –  Official press release

 No word on if there will be any future option on the song for Wii owners. That's all I've got for you, so get moving and get it downloaded.

• Guitar Hero – Community website
• Guitar Hero: Aerosmith – GuitarHero.com

PLAYSTATION 3 GUITAR HERO III BOSS BATTLE SONG PACK NOW AVAILABLE

If you've got the PlayStation 3 version of Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and have been waiting for the "Boss Battles" download pack that Xbox 360 users have been enjoying for the past week or so, your wait is over. The Guitar Hero III "Boss Battle" Song Pack is now available through the PlayStation Store as a free download. Approximate file size is 78mb.

Just don't hold your breath hoping for the Halo 3 Mjolnir Mix track to show up for the PS3, okay? Enjoy!

• Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock – Official website

FREE HALO 3 THEME SONG FOR XBOX 360 GUITAR HERO III

Okay, so I'm really late on this one – I meant to post it over the Thanksgiving weekend, but obviously that didn't happen due to issues involving gluttony and tryptophan. What I'm talking about here is the long-rumored release of the Halo 3 theme for the Xbox 360 version of Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.

While some may gripe that it was first rumored to be a downloadable track for Guitar Hero II, the fact remains that it was never officially promised by Microsoft, Bungie or Activision, so it's not like GHII owners are missing out on something that they were told they'd be getting by anyone other than the internet water cooler.

While the news about the Halo 3 track is good, the second part of the announcement is even better… it's a free download. If you've got the 360 version of GHIII, you've got no excuse to head over to the Xbox Live Marketplace and add this one to your hard drive. Get to it!

• Guitar Hero III – Official website
• Guitar Hero III: Halo Theme Mjolnir Mix (Free) – Major Nelson

THE ELDER SCROLLS IV: OBLIVION – THE FIGHTER’S STRONGHOLD RELEASED

Bethesda Softworks has released The Fighter’s Stronghold, the final downloadable content pack for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, for Windows and the Xbox 360, and for the period between October 15th and October 21st, gamers can download the pack free of charge.

“Fighter’s Stronghold – DLC6

Defeat the attacking marauders and become lord of Battlehorn Castle. Located in the Colovian Highlands west of Chorrol, this expansive castle will allow you to live the life of a noble warrior, with private quarters, grand dining hall, wine cellar, barracks, training room and more. And what castle would be complete without a few hidden passages and dark secrets?

• A fully detailed castle for you to explore
• Knights of the True Horn patrol the castle and do your bidding
  
• Secret treasure vault
• Upgrade the furnishings in every area of the castle
• Hire a vintner to create special wines to enhance your fighting abilities
• Hire a combat trainer to spar with
• Hire a taxidermist to craft lifelike trophies for your great hall
• Purchase an ancient Dwemer Forge that buffs your Armorer skill” – The Elder Scolls download page

The Fighter’s Stronghold is available to PC users through the game’s official store, while the Xbox 360 version can be obtained via the Xbox Live Marketplace. No information on what price the pack will carry after the 21st or whether or not the pack will be made available for the PlayStation 3 is currently available.

• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – Official site
• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – The Fighters Stronghold – Product page

GEARS OF WAR HIDDEN FRONTS PACK NOW FREE

I’m still feeling a bit under the weather, so I’m keeping today’s update short. As promised by Microsoft, the Hidden Fronts map pack for Gears of War is now available as a free download. The pack includes four new multiplayer maps which I’ve taken the liberty of listing below;

• Bullet Marsh
  • In this Kryll-infested swamp, an old generator still powers the area lights. A few stray bullets could easily knock out the generator, leaving you to fend for yourself against the Kryll.
• Garden
  • This overgrown and crumbling conservatory still has a working fertilization and pesticide system. This system can pose a serious hazard to anyone who ventures into the greenhouse without first venting the air.
• Process
  • Fight for control of this subterranean Imulsion processing plant, still active despite the cessation of the Pendulum wars.
• Subway
  • Timgad’s Central Subway station used to serve as a central hub for commuters. Now the tunnels are crawling with Locust.

So there you have it – if you’ve been waiting for this pack to go free, head on over to the Live Marketplace and download it.

• Gears of War – Official website
• Free Gears of War Hidden Fronts Map Pack – Xbox.com

XBOX 360 GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER 2 THROWBACK PACK FREE

Looks like Ubisoft is trying to bring the Xbox 360 version of Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 up to par with it’s just released PlayStation 3 sibling. Last week they made the original Throwback Pack a free download and have now released a second Throwback Pack as a free download.

"GRAW2 Throwback Pack 2 consists of 7 classic maps from Ghost Recon’s illustrious history. In addition to the 7 maps, there is a new game mode called Co-op Exfiltration. All of these maps have upgraded visuals and support all of GRAW2’s thousands of customizable game modes." – GRAW 2 Throwback Pack 2 dashboard description

Pretty nifty indeed – remember, free is always good.

• Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 – Official website

XBOX 360 GRAW2 THROWBACK PACK NOW A FREE DOWNLOAD

Just a quick note here – Xbox Live Director of Programming Larry “Major Nelson” Hyrb has announced that Ubisoft has made the Xbox 360 “Throwback Pack” for Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 a free download. The pack was previously priced at 800 points ($10) – no announcement was made regarding refunds for anyone who purchased it recently, so I wouldn’t hold my breath hoping for one.

• Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 – Official website
• GRAW2 Throwback Pack now free – Major Nelson
• Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 Throwback Pack – Xbox.com

PLAYSTATION STORE – BLAST FACTOR: ADVANCED RESEARCH

An expansion pack for Sony’s PlayStation 3 shooter Blast Factor is now available for purchase via the PlayStation Store. Purchase price is $4.99.

• Blast Factor: Advanced Research – Blast Factor page at PlayStation.com

FREE FORZA MOTORSPORT 2 CONTENT TO HIT LIVE TODAY

In a post over at ForzaMotorsport.net, the folks at Turn 10 announced that Nissan will be sponsoring a free downloadable car pack for Forza Motorsport 2 along with several Nissan themed events to be held via Xbox Live.

Naturally, the most exciting thing about the announcement is the addition of three free cars starting today. The Nissan car pack will include the 2007 models of the Nissan 350Z, Sentra SE-R and Altima. I said it back when Cadillac sponsored a car pack for Project Gotham Racing 3, and I’ll say it again – this is the way in-game advertising should be done. It’s unobtrusive, shows off the product and is something people will actually go out of their way to obtain. Sure, this example really only works for racing games, but it’s still a case where the end user doesn’t feel like they’re being pimped out by a game they’ve spent sixty or more dollars on.

As if that’s not enough, Nissan will also be hosting several events including a Sentra SE-R tournament race as well as a car customization contest. As an avid collector for Forza 2 cars, I certainly can’t wait to see what people come up with for that one. (Though I wonder if we’re going to see some controversy surrounding people using unlocked vinyls and claiming them as their own.)

While we’re on the subject of Forza 2, I should also note that one “premium” car will be debuting in the Xbox Live Marketplace tomorrow. A paintable Peugeot 908 race car will be sold for 50 Microsoft Points ($0.63).

• Forza Motorsport 2 – Official website
• Nissan Brings 2007 Cars to Forza Motorsport 2 – ForzaMotorsport.net

XBOX LIVE BRINGING IT HOME: COMIC-CON 2007 – DAY ONE

While all of these items may not be specifically related to the Bringing it Home promotion for Comic-Con 2007, they do all have two things in common;

1. They all appeared in the Xbox Live Marketplace on the first day of Comic-Con
2. They’re all FREE downloads.

So, because we all love freebies, here’s the list of the free stuff that appeared in the Marketplace on July 26th.

Trailers
Content: New Resident Evil 5 2007 Trailer
Price: Free
Availability: All regions except Japan
Size: 143.45 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: RP (Rating Pending)] The Resident Evil series continues with this highly anticipated sequel. Witness real-time footage from Resident Evil 5!The story unfolds in a land simmering in the heat of a merciless sun where the contrast between light and dark enhances the feeling of dread as a new evil draws closer.

Content: All-Pro Football 2K8 Trailer
Price: Free
Availability: Only in Canada, United States
Size: 67.56 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) MILD LANGUAGE] Over 240 NFL legends make their return to the gridiron, including Hall of Famers such as Johnny Unitas, Dick Butkus, Joe Montana, Mike Singletary, Reggie White and Walter Payton. Legends have their own signature moves in the game – Barry’s spin, Walter’s scissors kick, and Jerry’s one-handed grab.

Content: Surf’s Up Trailer (HD)
Price: Free
Availability: All regions except Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) CRUDE HUMOR,LANGUAGE] Surf’s Up Game Trailer

Content: Looney Tunes ACME Arsenal Trailer (HD)
Price: Free
Availability: Only in United States
Size: 54.96 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) Cartoon Violence] Download this trailer.

Content: Looney Tunes ACME Arsenal Trailer (SD)
Price: Free
Availability: Only in United States
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) Cartoon Violence] Download this trailer.

Content: Looney Tunes ACME Arsenal Trailer 2 (SD)
Price: Free
Availability: Only in United States
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) Cartoon Violence] Download this trailer.

Content: Looney Tunes ACME Arsenal Trailer 2 (HD)
Price: Free
Availability: Only in United States
Size: 150.61 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10+) Cartoon Violence] Download this trailer.

In Game Content
Game: Test Drive Unlimited
Content: Free Holden Efijy Concept
Price: Free
Availability: All regions
Dash Text: Download the Holden Efijy Concept for free (in-game currency still required for purchase at respective dealer).

Game: Splinter Cell Double Agent
Content: XBOX360 DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT
Price: Free
Availability: All regions
Dash Text: [ESRB: M (MATURE) BLOOD, LANGUAGE, VIOLENCE] 2 new multiplayer maps (Kinshasa and Secret base), 4 new challenges on those maps and a brand new character with 3 outfits : the Spy Girl.
Size: 83.48 MB

Game: Project Sylpheed
Content: 6 New Missions & Weapons + Leaderboards
Price: Free
Availability: All regions except Japan
Dash Text: [ESRB: T (Teen) FANTASY VIOLENCE,MILD BLOOD,MILD LANGUAGE,MILD SUGGESTIVE THEMES,USE OF ALCOHOL] Think you are truly an ace pilot? 6 new missions will challenge your skills and add 6 new super-weapons to your arsenal plus Xbox Live Leaderboard suppport to track your rank. Requires Project Sylpheed full retail game. Access Challenge Missions from the EXTRAS menu.

Game: Vamipire Rain
Content: VR Bonus Level 2
Price: Free
Availability: All regions except Japan, Korea, Taiwan
Dash Text: [ESRB: M (Mature) BLOOD AND GORE,INTENSE VIOLENCE] Thanks for supporting Vampire Rain. Ready for another gathering mission? Play as Duane Hanson in this bonus level to see how fast you can pick up all required equipment for your mission. Difficulty: 3 stars. Requires full retail game.

Gamer Pictures
Content: Comic-Con 2007 Gamer Picture
Price: Free
Availability: Only in United States
Dash Text: Download this gamer picture.

Content: Alien Hominid HD – Vehicle Picture Pack
Price: Free
Availability: All regions
Dash Text: [ESRB: T (Teen) BLOOD AND GORE,CARTOON VIOLENCE] This set of 5 pictures contains some of the most destructive vehiciles that our little yellow friend uses in the game. Get your hand on these 5 Gamer Pictures today!

Video
Content: MLG Heavyweight Match 1 Video (HD)
Price: Free
Availability: All regions
Size: 902.29 MB
Dash Text: [ESRB: RP (Rating Pending)] 2V2 Halo 2. The debut episode features up and coming pros Lunchbox and Roy vs. Halogod and VictoryX. Let the games begin!

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

XBOX 360 LOST PLANET MAP PACKS 1 & 2 TO BECOME FREE DOWNLOADS TODAY

According to Major Nelson, Capcom will be making the first two map packs (Map Pack 1 and Map Pack 2) for the Xbox 360 version of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition free downloads starting today. This is apparently being done in the spirit of fairness as the four maps are being released (for free) on the PC version today as well. Free is always good, so if you’ve got the game and haven’t bought the map packs yet, now is the time to do it.

Please note that the Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 3 will not be included as a free download.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 1 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Map Pack 2 – Product page at Xbox.com
• Lost Planet Maps to become free this Friday – Major Nelson

MICROSOFT E3 2007: BRINGING IT HOME CONTENT – DAY THREE

Here’s a list of the final batch of E3 2007 Xbox 360 trailers available in the Xbox Live Marketplace;

• Mercenaries 2: World in Flames™ – E3 2007 Trailer (HD)
• Stranglehold: The E3 Trailer (HD)
• Fatal Inertia (HD)
• Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground (HD)
• The Last Remnant (HD)
• Dynasty Warriors: Gundam (HD)
• Spider-man: Friend or Foe (HD)
• Half Life 2: The Orange Box – E3 2007 (HD)
• Fracture (HD)
• NHL 08 (HD)
• Skate

XBOX 360 STUNTMAN: IGNITION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of THQ’s Stuntman: Ignition for the Xbox 360 is now available for download in the Xbox Live Marketplace. Download size is approximately 642MB.

MICROSOFT E3 2007: BRINGING IT HOME CONTENT – DAY TWO

Here’s a list of the second batch of E3 2007 Xbox 360 trailers available in the Xbox Live Marketplace;

• BlackSite – E3 2007 Trailer (HD)
• The Bourne Conspiracy Trailer (HD)
• Assassin’s Creed (HD)
• Eternal Sonata (HD)
• Frontlines: Fuel of War (HD)
• Bee Movie (HD)
• Two Worlds (HD)
• Army of Two (HD)
• NCAA 08 (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 1 Video (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 2 Video (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 3 Video (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 4 Video (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 5 Video (HD)
• E3 2007 Press Conference part 6 Video (HD)

MICROSOFT E3 2007: BRINGING IT HOME CONTENT – DAY ONE

Here’s a list of the first batch of E3 2007 Xbox 360 trailers available in the Xbox Live Marketplace;

• Naruto: Rise of a Ninja (HD)
• Xbox Live Arcade Montage (HD)
• Xbox 360 Games Montage (HD)
• Civilization Revolution (HD)
• Games For Windows Montage (HD)
• Too Human (HD)
• Project Gotham Racing 4 (HD)
• Xbox LIVE Marketplace Montage (HD)
• Lost Odyssey (HD)
• Viva Pinata Party Animals (HD)
• Mass Effect (HD)
• Bomberman LIVE (HD)
• NBA Live ’08 (HD)
• Beautiful Katamari (HD)
• Crash of the Titans (HD)
• Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (HD)
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare (HD)
• Halo 3 (HD)
• Halo Arms Race (HD)

FIRST BATCH OF E3 CONTENT HITS PLAYSTATION STORE

The first batch of E3 2007 trailers for the PlayStation 3 are now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Here’s a list of what you can expect to find;

• Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
• Killzone 2 First Look
• PS3 E3’07 “Sizzle” video montage
• Lair
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
• Unreal Tournament 3
• High Velocity Bowling
• Warhawk
• LittleBigPlanet
• Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune
• PAIN
• Folklore
• Blacksite: Area 51
• Go Sports Ski
• Blast Factor: Advanced Research
• Everyday Shooter
• Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice
• E3’07 Closing video

There’s still no sign of the rumored Heavenly Sword demo, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

IT’S BUNGIE DAY!!! – FREE XBOX 360 THEME AND GAMERPICS

Today is July 7th, 2007 – a day that most media outlets tell me is supposed to be the luckiest day of the century. Well, I don’t know about that, since apparently my version of “getting lucky” was oversleeping until 3:30pm, but I’m sure someone out there is having a great time.

The point of the matter is that for no actual reason, Bungie has declared today Bungie Day and made some gifts available for today and today only. Now that I’ve got your attention, those gifts take the form of a special Halo 3 theme and gamerpic set available to Xbox 360 owners via the Xbox Live Marketplace. As I stated before, these freebies will be taken down at the end of the day, so donwload them now or lose out forever.

• 7/07/07: Love, Bungie – Bungie.net

BOTH XBOX 360 RAINBOW SIX VEGAS PLAYER’S PACKS NOW FREE

This story has been sitting on my “to post” list for about a week now and seeing how as of tomorrow both player’s packs for the Xbox 360 version of Rainbow Six Vegas will be free downloads, I figured now was the time to post it.

Back on June 29th, Major Nelson reported that Ubisoft had finally fixed the problems they were having with the recently released Player’s Pack: Black Edition for the Xbox 360, and announced that the pack was supposed to have been a free download. As a way of making up for the confusion, Ubisoft had opted to put the “Black Pack” back on Live as a free download and announced that the older Player’s Pack: Red Edition would also become a free download effective July 6th – you know… today.

“Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas Black Pack Downloadable Content for Xbox 360 Live was originally intended to be free content for the fans of Rainbow Six Vegas. We apologize for the error. All players who purchased the Black Pack will be reimbursed automatically.* The Black Pack will be posted Saturday June 30th and will be free of charge. Also, as a token of our appreciation for the Rainbow Six community, we are making the Red Pack free as of Friday July 6th as well. Thanks for playing and we hope you enjoy this free content.” – Ubisoft

That’s a whole lot of freebie goodness right there, so if you have R6V and haven’t picked up either pack yet, you should be golden by the end of today. One last thing to note is that anyone who purchased the Black Edition pack during it’s short time as a pay download can expect to see a refund automatically within 8-10 weeks.

• Rainbow Six Vegas – Official website
• Rainbow Six Vegas Black Pack Update (good news) – Major Nelson
• Rainbow Six Vegas Player’s Pack: Red Edition – Product page at Xbox.com
• Rainbow Six Vegas Player’s Pack: Black Edition – Product page at Xbox.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

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 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

TWO “NEW” HALO 2 MAPS COMING APRIL 17TH

In the latest Bungie Weekly Update, Bungie’s official Content Monkey, Frank O’Connor announced that two "new" maps will be released for Halo 2 on April 17th. I use the term "new" because as it turns out, the maps are based on some old friends from the original Halo.

The first map, Tombstone, is based on "Hang ‘Em High"…;

"Now, did I say that Tombstone was 90% Hang ‘Em High? I did! There are some subtle and some not so subtle differences. Obviously the graphical look is very, very different. Gone are the senseless pieces of geometry with no context. Now it is perfectly obvious, even to an idiot, that the giant crane put them there. We won’t go into why. It just did.

The massive main ramp has been changed too. It was something of a death trap in its Halo CE form, so now there’s a grav lift that boosts you past the really dangerous part (although the grav lift noise will give enemies some indication that you used it) and the internal corridor structure has changed on that side. There’s even some new areas up there, but they’re pretty small. And we’ve added another way into those corridors, you’ll just have to see when you play." – Frank O’Connor, Bungie

…and the second, Desolation, is based on "Derelict";

"The next most popular question was, “Why Derelict?” Easy. Right now, some of the most active players are competitive players. They get a lot of use out of these smaller symmetrical maps, since the tightly tuned variants they play require a certain amount of predictability. Derelict made the perfect foundation for that. Now, while Tombstone is a cool 90% remake of Hang ‘Em High, Desolation has been significantly altered for competitive play.

Gone are the meaningless upper floor tunnels, replaced instead by ramps that allow easy access to the ground floor, and create tight close quarters battles, and occasional grenade traps. The teleports have been replaced by rapid grav lifts, more direct and quicker to use than the ramps. Graphically it’s changed quite a bit as you can see, but it will feel familiar to Halo CE fans, although we dare say, much better." – Frank O’Connor, Bungie

Now for the important part – when these maps were originally announced, they were designated as being for the Xbox 360 only, however things have changed. Bungie has announced that the maps will be available for both the Xbox and Xbox 360 at a cost of $4.00 for both…

…and there’s the rub. I didn’t give the price in Microsoft Points, because the maps will not be available via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Because of the fact that the original Xbox is not supported by the Marketplace, the maps will only be available by direct purchase through Halo 2’s in-game interface – just like the pre-360 Halo 2 downloadable content. In other words, you’ll need to buy the maps via a credit card.

In addition to that little hitch, the maps are not transferable – they’ll only work on the system you download them for, meaning that if you have both an Xbox and Xbox 360, you’ll need to decide which one you want to play the maps on. There’s also no official word on whether or not the maps will be re-downloadable should you need to have your Xbox or Xbox 360 replaced. (O’Connor says the maps will be tied to your Live account as well as being tied to the machine you downloaded them to, which is why you can’t have the maps on both an Xbox and Xbox 360 you own.)

"Because of that, we can’t use Xbox Live Marketplace – it obviously doesn’t exist on the old Xbox. So this will be one of the last times you use a credit card proper to buy a map. In the Halo 2 game interface, you simply select the download option from the main interface, and it will show the new content there. This likely won’t ever be available on a disc, like the last maps, so this is your only method for the moment. These maps could in theory be made free eventually, like last time, but the truth is that we’ll have moved on to Halo 3 by then and it won’t be a priority. So don’t hold your breath. If you don’t have a credit card, simply buy a $4 Visa gift card at a supermarket. Bam!…

…You WILL have to pick which box to install it on. It’s tied to the box you download it to, as well as your Live account, so you effectively can’t have it on more than one system. Sorry." – Frank O’Connor, Bungie

So there you have it gang – come April 17th, Halo 2 will take a shot at re-taking it’s place as the number one game on Xbox Live. Will Gears of War fall before the Master Chief’s onslaught? I guess we’ll know in about 3 weeks.

• Bungie Weekly Update 3/30/07 – Bungie.net
• Bungie – Official website

XBOX 360 OBLIVION: SHIVERING ISLES EXPANSION NOW AVAILABLE

The Xbox 360 version of Shivering Isles, the final expansion pack for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, is now available for purchase in the Xbox Live Marketplace. The download will run you 2,400 Microsoft points ($30) and take up roughly 996mb of hard drive space. Of course, Xbox Live will be down today between 3am EST and 5pm EST, so you may have to wait a little bit longer to take the plunge.

Since we’ve now reached the apparent end of Oblivion’s product line, let’s take a quick look at just how much an Oblivion addict may have spent on the title, shall we?

• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – Collector’s Edition – $69.99 (+ tax)
• Horse Armor – 200 points ($2.50)
• Knights of the Nine (Expansion pack) – 800 points ($10)
• Mehrune’s Razor – 250 points ($3.15)
• The Orrery – 150 points ($1.88)
• Shivering Isles (Expansion pack) – 2400 points ($30)
• Spell Tomes – 80 points ($1)
• Wizard’s Tower – 150 points ($1.88)
• Thieves Den – 150 points ($1.88)
• The Vile Lair – 150 points ($1.88)

All together, we come out with 4,330 Microsoft points in add-ons, bringing the total here to $124.16 for the collector’s edition, and $114.16 for the standard edition (plus whatever applicable tax you paid on Oblivion). Whether or not that’s money well spent is completely up to you.

• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – Official site
• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion – Shivering Isles – Official site

WARHAWK DOWNGRADED TO DOWNLOADABLE MULTIPLAYER GAME

As the rumor mill hinted at awhile back, it appears that Sony’s PlayStation 3 title Warhawk will no longer be seeing a full retail release. According to an article over at Kotaku, IGN’s weekly webcast features an interview with the developers over at Incognito Entertainment, where they confirm that the game will indeed be reduced to a multiplayer game only available via a download from the PlayStation Store. According to Warhawk’s director, Dylan Jobe, the reason behind the change is that the single player mode just wasn’t coming along well, so they decided to just focus on the multiplayer aspects of the game.

I’m getting more and more nervous about Heavenly Sword’s fate. It seems to me that the less Sony mentions a game, the worse things are going for it – and we haven’t heard anything official about Heavenly Sword in awhile now. I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed.

• Warhawk Goes Multiplayer, Download Only (Really, This Time) – Kotaku
• IGN Weekly – IGN (the episode you’re looking for is #38)

THE OUTFIT: COLLATERAL DAMAGE MAP PACK NOW FREE

Major Nelson reported today that the Collateral Damage Map Pack for The Outfit is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace for free. The pack was originally priced at 500 points ($6.25) but as was done with the Halo 2 premium maps, it has now been reduced to a free download. I’m sure there will be plenty of griping from the 6 people out there who bought it.

FREE DOWNLOADABLE CONTENT FOR CHROMEHOUNDS

Sega has released a new free downloadable content pack for Chromehounds on the Xbox 360. The content pack includes 2 light arms, 2 heavy arms, 1 assist part and 1 new color scheme. The pack can be downloaded via the Xbox Live Marketplace.

THE VILE LAIR NOW AVAILABLE FOR OBLIVION

As announced earlier, Bethesda has released the latest Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion content pack for both the PC and Xbox 360 versions of the game. The pack, entitled The Vile Lair, is designed for characters on the darker end of the spectrum, most specifically those who choose to be infected by vampirism. As per the content descriptor;

“This underwater hideout provides your infamous character with safe haven. Those willingly inflicted (or shall we say graced?) with vampirism will find a means to feed, and if necessary, a means to cure their infliction. Hire evil minions, pray to the dark god Sithis, and a host of other functions await.

Features:

• A multilevel lair for murderous players to find refuge
  
• The Font of Renewal, where a player may purge himself of Vampirism
  
• The Shrine of Sithis where the infamous player may heal and be cured of disease
  
• A Dark Minion, who the player may employ to find gold in a most unseemly manner
  
• A ‘cattle pen’ for vampires to dine
  
• An indoor garden of venomous plants, including the notorious Chokeberry to feed to your enemy
  
• Various furnishing upgrades, including a study room and storage area ” – Official Elder Scrolls Download Store

The pack is available in the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 150 points ($1.87) for Xbox 360 users and on PC via the Oblivion Download Store at a cost of $1.89. For more information on the pack and it’s story, head on over to the Oblivion Download Store and watch as the total cost of experiencing Oblivion continues to rise.

MORE OBLIVION CONTENT COMING JULY 13TH

The official Elder Scrolls download store has named, dated and described the next content add-on for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. The Vile Lair seems to be geared towards the darker end of the spectrum, most specifically those who choose to be infected by vampirism. As per the content descriptor;

“This underwater hideout provides your infamous character with safe haven. Those willingly inflicted (or shall we say graced?) with vampirism will find a means to feed, and if necessary, a means to cure their infliction. Hire evil minions, pray to the dark god Sithis, and a host of other functions await.

Features:

• A multilevel lair for murderous players to find refuge
  
• The Font of Renewal, where a player may purge himself of Vampirism
  
• The Shrine of Sithis where the infamous player may heal and be cured of disease
  
• A Dark Minion, who the player may employ to find gold in a most unseemly manner
  
• A ‘cattle pen’ for vampires to dine
  
• An indoor garden of venomous plants, including the notorious Chokeberry to feed to your enemy
  
• Various furnishing upgrades, including a study room and storage area ” – Official Elder Scrolls Download Store

The content is scheduled to be released for the PC version of Oblivion on July 13th at a cost of $1.89. No information on price/release date for the 360 version of this content pack was available. For more information on the pack and it’s story, head on over to the Oblivion Download Store and give in to your darker side.

PROJECT GOTHAM RACING 3 STYLE PACK RELEASED

The latest add-on pack for Project Gotham Racing 3 is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace for 400 points ($5). The PGR3 Style Pack adds new achievements, 3 new game modes and the following 12 cars to the game;

BMW M6 (2006)
BMW Z8 (2001)
BMW M3 CSL (2003)
BMW MINI COOPER S (2005)
Gumpert Apollo Coupe 4.2 V8 (2005)
2005 Chrysler Firepower Concept
Ferrari 365 GTB4 “Daytona” (1968)
Ferrari F430 Challenge (2006)
Mercedes CLK DTM AMG (C209)
Pagani Zonda F (2005)
RUF R.K. Spyder 3.8 (2006)
Vanwall GPR V12 (2006)

For those who don’t wish to purchase the full pack, individual cars can be purchased for 60 points each ($.75) and the RUF R.K. Spyder can be downloaded for free. In addition to the new cars, the Style Pack also adds achievements for the “missing” 200 achievement points as well as several new game modes;

“The new pack also features Photo Mode Integration, allowing you to upload your best moments online. The pack also includes exciting new mini-games such as “Free Roam Points,” “Team Free Roam Points,” and “Cat and Mouse.” -Xbox.com

Check out the official announcement here and then get to racing. Go Speed Racer, go Speed Racer, go Speed Racer, gooooooo.

Story Updated 11:55pm 7/11/06 – Despite what the description from Microsoft for the Style Pack may say, you do not need the pack to play the 3 new game modes. Apparently those modes are unlocked via an automatic update or can be accessed once you download the free RUF R.K. Spyder.

XBOX 360 CALL OF DUTY 2 INVASION PACK NOW AVAILABLE

As we reported on Tuesday, Activision has released a new multiplayer map pack for use with the Xbox 360 version of Call of Duty 2. The pack, dubbed the “Invasion Pack”, contains 5 new multiplayer maps and is available via the Xbox Live Marketplace for 800 points ($10).

PROJECT GOTHAM RACING 3 STYLE PACK DETAILED

Computer and Video Games is reporting that the next car pack for Project Gotham Racing 3 is coming soon and will be adding 12 more cars to the game. As with the Speed Pack, CVG is stating that the 12 cars in the pack will be available for 400 marketplace points ($5) as a group, or that each car can be purchased separately for 60 marketplace points ($.75).

The report lists the following cars as being included in the Style Pack;

• 365 GTB4 (“Daytona”)
• BMW M3 CSL
• BMW M6
• BMW MINI COOPER S
• BMW Z8
• Chrysler Firepower Concept
• Ferrari 430 Challenge
• Gumpert Apollo Coupe 4.2 V8
• Mercedes CLK DTM AMG
• Pagani Zonda F
• RUF R.K. Spyder
• Vanwall GPR V12

No date was given for the release of the pack, but we’ll naturally keep tabs on this one and let you know as soon as that changes. Check out the full CVG report here and hope that they’ll increase the number of garages in the game this time as well.

CALL OF DUTY 2 INVASION PACK COMING THURSDAY

Team Xbox is reporting that sources inside Activision have advised them that the next map pack for the Xbox 360 version of Call of Duty 2 will be made available in the Xbox Live Marketplace this thursday at a cost of 800 points ($10) and will include 5 new multiplayer maps.

Check out the Team Xbox scoop here and ask yourself if five maps is really worth ten dollars.

WII TO SUPPORT MICROTRANSACTIONS

Nintendo specific site The Wiire is reporting that in an interview included in the latest Game Informer magazine, Nintendo’s Reggie Fils-Aime spoke a bit about what Nintendo’s plans are for the WiiConnect24 service.

For those who need a refresher, WiiConnect24 is the Wii’s continuous wireless connection system that allows the console to update itself on it’s own as well as at the users command.

While preparing to kick butt and make games, Fils-Aime spoke about using the system the same way Microsoft has used the Live Marketplace, namely for microtransactions.

“All of that is possible with what it is we are trying to do. If our licensee partners want to go in that direction, it’s certainly possible in our system” -Reggie Fils-Aime

I think most users already expected this, given that Nintendo plans on selling games for the Virtual Console, but this certainly shows that it’s not just emulated games that could get the treatment. GIven the success that the Live Marketplace and developers have seen with microtransactions, this should help to make the Wii more attractive to third parties as well.

On the subject of third party support, Fils-Aime also stated that unlike the Gamecube, the Wii is seeing a great deal of interest from third parties;

“…with the stellar third-party support we’re getting, really, right at launch, that’s another major difference from what we did with GameCube.” -Reggie Fils-Aime

Check out the rest of the report over at The Wiire and in Game Informer for the full text of the interview.

XBOX 360 GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER CHAPTER 2 NOW AVAILABLE

A huge expansion pack for the Xbox 360 version of Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace for 1200 points ($15). The pack, billed as the largest expansion pack ever offered for a game via the marketplace, adds a host of new multiplayer features. new weapons and graphical enhancements;

“One of the most popular multiplayer games on Xbox Live® has gotten even more intense with the release of a huge new package of downloadable content for Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter™. GRAW Chapter 2 introduces new maps, new game types, new camouflage, and new weapons—all part of this exciting package, now available in Xbox Live Marketplace for 1200 Microsoft Points.” -Xbox Live Marketplace

Check out the full details of what’s been added here.

MEHRUNE’S RAZOR ADD-ON NOW AVAILABLE FOR OBLIVION

Bethesda has announced that the latest content add-on for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is now available for both the Xbox 360 and PC. The content can be obtained via the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 250 points ($3.13) for Xbox 360 users and via the Elder Scrolls Download Store at a cost of $2.99 for the PC. As per the content description;

“The lost Ayleid City Varsa Baalim has been unearthed by a rogue Telvanni arch-mage, in pursuit of a fearsome Daedric Artifact, Mehrunes Razor, which he believes will give him the power he needs to topple the Imperial reign – but what horrors lie in wait beneath the Valus mountains; and can you overcome them to claim Mehrunes Razor as your own?

Features:

• A fully-featured quest takes you deep into the fringes of the Niben.
  
• Earn the fearsome Mehrunes Razor, with the ability to kill foes instantly.
  
• 17 new magic items to discover!
  
• Conquer the largest dungeon in all Cyrodiil.
  
• Thwart a plot to overthrow Imperial rule in Tamriel.
  
• 12 new books, notes, and journals to help you unravel the mystery.
  
• Hidden treasures await! “ – Official Elder Scrolls IV Download Store

Unlike previous expansions, this one will require the most recent patch in order to be used, so be sure to download the patch before you pick up the pack just to make sure everything goes smoothly. Personally, I’ll hold off on this one until the reviews are in – too many of the Oblivion add-ons have been disappointments to just buy it sight unseen.

PC users can pick up the content pack here while Xbox 360 users can obtain the download via Xbox Live.

XBOX LIVE SUMMER OF FUN

Gaming site ClubSkill is reporting that they’ve obtained a leaked magazine article showing Microsoft’s plans for Live this summer. While normally the summer is caught up in the post E3 dearth of games, if the article is to be believed, Microsoft plans on exploiting this slow time of the year. According to the page scan, here’s what summer has in store for Live and the 360;

• June 2006
  • Street Fighter II: Hyper Fighting – Xbox Live Arcade – 400 points
• July 2006
  • Perfect Dark Zero Map Pack #2 – 500 points
  • Project Gotham Racing Pack #2 – 500 points
    • 5 New Cars
    • “Cat & Mouse” game mode
    • “Proximity Based” game mode
  • Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfigher – price TBA
    • Maps & co-op Scenarios
  • Kameo: Elements of Power Hardcore Package- 500 points
    • Harder difficulty Single and Co-op campaign mode
    • New skins
    • Competitive co-op game mode
  • Cloning Clyde – Xbox Live Arcade – 800 points
  • Call of Duty 2 Map Pack – 500 points
    • 5 new multiplayer maps
• August/September 2006
  • Frogger – Xbox Live Arcade – 400 points
  • Lumines Live – Xbox Live Arcade – 1,200 points
  • Roboblitz – Xbox Live Arcade – 800 points
  • Pac-Man – Xbox Live Arcade – 400 points

While nothing on that list would be a major surprise even if the article is false, I somehow get the feeling that unlike the other classic arcade ports, Street Fighter II is going to hit at a higher price than 400 points ($5). I also think that at 1,200 points, Lumines Live had better have an option not to be forced into watching the artists Microsoft plans to feature via their agreement with Warner records. I’m not familiar with the reliability of ClubSkill, but check out their article here.

PERFECT DARK ZERO MAP PACK AVAILABLE

Major Nelson dropped a note in his blog to let everyone know that the first premium map pack for Perfect Dark Zero is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace for 500 points ($6.25). The map pack contains four new multiplayer maps: Plaza, Rooftops, Trench, and GasPlant.

MORE CONTENT COMING FOR OBLIVION

The official Elder Scrolls IV Download Store has listed another add-on pack as “Coming Soon” for Oblivion. The pack, Mehrunes’ Razor, seems to be geared towards the melee oriented characters and centers around a quest to halt the overthrow of the empire and obtain an extremely powerful sword. From the content description;

“The lost Ayleid City Varsa Baalim has been unearthed by a rogue Telvanni arch-mage, in pursuit of a fearsome Daedric Artifact, Mehrunes Razor, which he believes will give him the power he needs to topple the Imperial reign – but what horrors lie in wait beneath the Valus mountains; and can you overcome them to claim Mehrunes Razor as your own?

Features:

• A fully-featured quest takes you deep into the fringes of the Niben.
  
• Earn the fearsome Mehrunes Razor, with the ability to kill foes instantly.
  
• 17 new magic items to discover!
  
• Conquer the largest dungeon in all Cyrodiil.
  
• Thwart a plot to overthrow Imperial rule in Tamriel.
  
• 12 new books, notes, and journals to help you unravel the mystery.
  
• Hidden treasures await! ” – Official Elder Scrolls IV Download Store

While the pack certainly sounds interesting, I’ll again hold off on my opinion until it’s actually out there and it’s value can be better judged. I will say that the concept of a sword with the ability to kill instantly sounds a bit “broken” to me. It’s a little early for the game to be going Monty Haul. One last thing to note is that the information page states the download will be $2.99, an increase from the previous content add-ons. Hopefully that’s more indicative of the quality and amount of content the download will provide and not just that Bethesda thinks that the previous content packs have sold well enough that they can justify a price increase out of pocket. Check out the full content description page here.

CADILLAC V-SERIES COLLECTION NOW AVAILABLE FOR PGR3

Cadillac wants you to know about their V series automobiles, the CTS-V, STS-V, and XLR-V and to introduce you to them, they’ve had Bizarre add those cars to Project Gotham Racing 3 for your downloading pleasure.

How much is it going to cost you to see this little bit of automotive advertising? Nothing, it’s a free download. Sounds like a pretty fair deal to me, they put the three V series cars on your radar, you get to drive them around in PGR3. We all win. It’s in game advertising the way it ought to be. Head on over to the Xbox Live Marketplace to get them!

OBLIVION CONTENT: THIEVES DEN NOW AVAILABLE FOR 360 AND PC

Bethesda’s latest official add-on to Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is now available for both the Xbox 360 and PC. The add-on pack, “The Thieves Den”, contains adventures geared towards the more stealthy characters of Oblivion. As per Elder Scrolls Store;

““The Thieves Den provides you with everything you need to outfit your stealth-based character for missions. Rediscover the legendary Dunbarrow Cove and the ancient pirate ship The Red Sabre. Dunbarrow Cove not only provides a home base to operate out of, you can purchase new vendors, trainers, and even an upgrade to your sleeping quarters with the loot from your heists.” -Elder Scrolls Store

The content is available through the Xbox Live Marketplace at a cost of 150 points ($1.88) for Xbox 360 owners and in the Elder Scrolls Store for $1.89 for PC users. Is it a decent add-on or is it just another cheap gimmick to milk two dollars out of you? Only time will tell, but at least this time the mod comes with free pirates, and pirates are always welcome! Bring out the Grog! Click here to head over to the Oblivion Store for the full details on what the add-on pack contains.

MORE PREMIUM CONTENT AVAILABLE FOR THE OUTFIT

In his blog, Major Nelson noted that the “Collateral Damage Map Pack” for The Outfit is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace for 500 points. ($6.25)

MORE CONTENT COMING FOR ELDER SCROLLS IV: OBLIVION

An article over at Microsoft’s Xbox E3 site notes that there is another add-on in the works for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. This add-on, entitled Thieves Den, adds a bit of high seas piracy to the game;

“In the downloadable mission, which will be released in two weeks, you battle for control of a massive cave, complete with a haunting pirate ship. Once you conquer the lair, it forever belongs to your character.

You can start a band of pirates. You can plunder. And you can decorate your captain’s chamber with furniture. “ – Ashley Cheng, Bethesda Developer

Now I know the last 3 downloads have been a bit of a disappointment, but Arrrr – there be pirates! Be clicking here to see the article over at Xbox.com mateys!

XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE E3 CONTENT – THURSDAY EDITION

Xbox Live’s Major Nelson is reporting in his blog that more E3 content is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace. According to the list, here’s whats up for download currently;

Demos

MotoGP ’06

Trailers & Videos

Rainbow Six: Vegas
Behind the Scenes: Splinter Cell: Double Agent

Gamer Pictures & Themes

Addidas +10 Theme
X3 Gamer Picture Pack
X3 Theme #2
Xbox Live Silver Theme
Xbox Live Gold Theme

XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE E3 CONTENT – TUESDAY EDITION

Xbox Live’s Major Nelson is reporting in his blog that more E3 content is now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace. According to the list, here’s whats up for download currently;

Demos
Lost Planet Extreme Condition

Trailers
Call of Duty
Culdcept SAGA
Hitman: Blood Money
Lost Planet Extreme Condition
Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
NBA 2K7
Rockstar Games Presents Table Tennis
Tony Hawk’s Project 8

XBOX LIVE MARKETPLACE E3 CONTENT BEGINS TO APPEAR

Xbox Live’s Major Nelson is reporting in his blog that the first bits of E3 content are now available in the Xbox Live Marketplace. According to the list, here’s whats up for download currently;

Demos
Test Drive: Unlimited

Trailers
BattleStation: Midway (Ubisoft)
Brother In Arms Hell’s Highway (Ubisoft)
Bullet Witch (AQ Interactive/Cavia)
College Hoops (2K7 2KSports)
Dance Dance Revolution Universe (Konami)
Dead Rising (Capcom)
John Woo Presents Stranglehold (Midway)
NCAA Football 07 (Electronic Arts)
Rain (AQ Interactive/Cavia)
Sonic the Hedgehog (Sega)
Test Drive Unlimited (Atari)
The Lord of the Rings, The Battle for Middle-Earth II (Electronic Arts)

Gamer Pictures
X3 Gamer Pictures
Adidas Gamer Pictures

OVER 60 PIECES OF CONTENT COMING TO LIVE MARKETPLACE DURING E3

The good news? There will be tons of new content hitting Live during E3, including a demo of Lost Planet: Extreme Condition from Capcom. The bad news? Microsoft has apparently announced there will be no playable Gears of War demo at E3, just a high-definition trailer. Check out the Gamespot article for more details!
——————–

I can’t even begin to tell you how bummed I am about there not being a playable demo of Gears of War. Just utterly depressing after the last week or two of rumors.

NEW XBOX 360 CALL OF DUTY 2 MULTI-PLAYER MAPS COMING

Word from Gamespot is that Activision is preparing 3 map packs for Call of Duty 2 on the Xbox 360. The first 2 packs will arrive sometime this spring. Pack one will contain 2 maps and will be provided for free. The second of the packs will contain two more maps and carry a price of 400 marketplace points ($5). The final pack will be released in July and will add 5 more maps at a cost of 900 marketplace points ($11.25)

BESTBUY “EXCLUSIVE” MAP FOR THE OUTFIT NOW IN LIVE MARKETPLACE

The Arnhem Mayhem map which was previously only available to Xbox 360 owners who purchased The Outfit at BestBuy is now available for free in the Xbox Live Marketplace. Guess someone figured what good is a map, if no one plays it due to a limited audience.

BESTBUY “EXCLUSIVE” MAP FOR THE OUTFIT NOW IN LIVE MARKETPLACE

The Arnhem Mayhem map which was previously only available to Xbox 360 owners who purchased The Outfit at BestBuy is now available for free in the Xbox Live Marketplace. Guess someone figured what good is a map, if no one plays it due to a limited audience.

OBLIVION: WIZARD’S PORTAL ADD-ON NOW AVAILABLE FOR XBOX 360 AND PC

The third of the promised official add-ons for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is now available for both the Xbox 360 and PC. The new content retails for $1.89 on PC from the Elder Scrolls store and 150 Marketplace Points ($1.88) in the Xbox Live Marketplace. While I love Oblivion, word on the last 2 add-on packs has been so negative that I’m not even considering buying this one until I hear a full review of the content. Here’s the description of the add-on as per Bethesda;

"Located high in the Jeral Mountains of Cyrodiil away from prying eyes, this add-on makes the Wizard’s Tower, Frostcrag Spire, become available. Packed with numerous useful enchantments, this structure will prove invaluable to magic-oriented characters.

Features:

-A fully detailed tower for you to explore.

-A breathtaking view of Cyrodiil from the highest point in the land.

-An indoor botanical garden with over 130 specimens… including Oblivion-native herbs.

-Summon Atronach Familiars that obey your commands.

-Instant teleports to every Mages Guild in Cyrodiil.

-New Spell and Recharge vendor in the Imperial City.

-Fully upgrade the furnishings in your lair to suit your needs.

-Upgrade to a fully functional Enchanting and Spellmaking station with no need to join the Mages Guild.

-Upgrade to a laboratory that buffs your Alchemy skill." – Offical Elder Scrolls Store

If you’re interested in picking it up, head on over to the Official Elder Scrolls Store or Xbox Live Marketplace and have at it.

OBLIVION: WIZARD’S PORTAL ADD-ON NOW AVAILABLE FOR XBOX 360 AND PC

The third of the promised official add-ons for Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is now available for both the Xbox 360 and PC. The new content retails for $1.89 on PC from the Elder Scrolls store and 150 Marketplace Points ($1.88) in the Xbox Live Marketplace. While I love Oblivion, word on the last 2 add-on packs has been so negative that I’m not even considering buying this one until I hear a full review of the content. Here’s the description of the add-on as per Bethesda;

"Located high in the Jeral Mountains of Cyrodiil away from prying eyes, this add-on makes the Wizard’s Tower, Frostcrag Spire, become available. Packed with numerous useful enchantments, this structure will prove invaluable to magic-oriented characters.

Features:

-A fully detailed tower for you to explore.

-A breathtaking view of Cyrodiil from the highest point in the land.

-An indoor botanical garden with over 130 specimens… including Oblivion-native herbs.

-Summon Atronach Familiars that obey your commands.

-Instant teleports to every Mages Guild in Cyrodiil.

-New Spell and Recharge vendor in the Imperial City.

-Fully upgrade the furnishings in your lair to suit your needs.

-Upgrade to a fully functional Enchanting and Spellmaking station with no need to join the Mages Guild.

-Upgrade to a laboratory that buffs your Alchemy skill." – Offical Elder Scrolls Store

If you’re interested in picking it up, head on over to the Official Elder Scrolls Store or Xbox Live Marketplace and have at it.

THE ORRERY NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE PC VERSION OF OBLIVION

We reported yesterday that the Orrery add-on was released for the Xbox 360 version of Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Well, today the PC version of the mod was made available on the Official Oblivion Downloads page for the sum of $1.89. Details for the add-on are the same as the Xbox 360 version.

On a side note, the initial word coming in about this add-on is not all that positive. As I haven’t purchased it yet, I can’t personally confirm anything, but word on many forums is that the series of quests it imparts last about 10 minutes and simply award one new spell.

 

MORE OBLIVION CONTENT FOR XBOX 360

The Orrery is now available for download in the Xbox Live Marketplace for 150 points ($1.88) – No word on when the PC version of the Orrery will be released. Unlike the much maligned horse, this one seems to be worth the purchase price.

-“The Orrery allows you to help the Mages Guild of Cyrodiil repair the Imperial Orrery, an ancient dwarven machine with mystical properties. Bandits have stolen a shipment of parts destined for the Arcane University; if you can return them, the Orrery will function once more.

Features

* A new, full-featured quest, including dialogue, journals, and rewards
* Access to the Imperial Orrery in the Arcane University, an incredible mechanical marvel
* New powers available for your character based on the phases of the moons ” – Elder Scrolls Official Forums