METAL GEAR SOLID 4 COMING JUNE 12TH

Yeah, it does seem like it's "Grub Off Kotaku Day" here at the House of Latenite, but I always go with the first place I saw a story when posting them, and Kotaku just seemed to beat everyone to the punch today.

PlayStation 3 fans have finally gotten the answer they've been waiting to hear for so long… Konami has dated Metal Gear Solid 4. Rather than tease you any further (and since the date is in the title, it's not like that teasing would be effective anyway), the game is scheduled to hit retail on June 12th, 2008.

However, much like a late night infomercial, there's more – Sony has announced that they will be releasing a PlayStation 3 bundle that includes the 80GB PS3, a DualShock 3 controller and Metal Gear Solid 4 for $499.99. That's a combination that will probably win over quite a few who have been waiting on the sidelines for MGS4 before investing in a PS3.

• Metal Gear Solid 4 – Official website
• PlayStation 3: Metal Gear Solid 4 Finally Has a Release Date – Kotaku
• Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 Bundle Announced – Kotaku

XBOX 360 PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2008 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 for the Xbox 360 is now available for download in North America via the Xbox Live Marketplace. Download size is approximately 1.18GB.

• Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 – Official website

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TRACK & FIELD

We’re back down to just one new Xbox Live Arcade title this week, and it’s one that’s going to take us back to the arcades of 1983. Konami’s Track & Field was a bit of a departure from the norm when it was first released due to it’s relatively simplistic controls, which consisted os just two run buttons and an action button.

For those of you who aren’t retrogamers or older than dirt, Track & Field is an olympic style track game which features the following events; the 100 meter dash, the long jump, the javelin throw, the 110m hurdles, the hammer throw and the high jump. Depending on the event, the player rapidly presses both buttons in order to make their on screen avatar run and then use the action button to control the timing and angle of their jump or throw. It’s a combination that not only rewards skill, but also requires physical speed in order to post the best scores.

It’s because of this special control configuration that I question just how well the game will translate to the Xbox 360. Track & Field isn’t the type of game that’s ideally suited to a control pad – so much so that many of the home console versions of the game were made with specialty controllers in mind. Those of us with some form of arcade style controller shouldn’t have a problem, but those with just the standard control pad may face some serious problems staying competitive.

Title: Track & Field
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 8/08/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"On your mark! Get set! Go! The world title is on the line and you have to compete in six events to cement your legacy as a World Champion. Race the 100m Dash and 110m Hurdles, test your skills with the Javelin and Hammer Throw, and hop to it with the Long Jump and High Jump. Global leaderboards will compare your skills to see where you truly rank in the world. Compete with up to four other athletes on one Xbox® or over Xbox LIVE®. Originally released in 1983, Track & Field was an arcade button-smashing classic, and now you can play it on Xbox.

• Button-smashing multiplayer experience:Compete in events with up to four players in Xbox LIVE Versus Mode. Go head-to-head in the running events. Host your own World Champion party.
• New leaderboards: Track your achievements with all-time and weekly leaderboards for high score, event results, and win/loss ratios.
• Enhanced graphics: Choose either the authentic original graphics or the enhanced graphics including new special effects and hand-painted game sprites and backgrounds. 
• Enhanced audio: All music and sound effects have been digitally enhanced to sound richer and deeper.
• Achievements: Twelve new achievements ranging from easy to hard encourage you to become a World Champion atTrack & Field." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Live Arcade titles, Marathon: Durundal may have been cutting edge when it was first released, but as with Doom, it just doesn’t stand up well to the test of time. The demo itself is pretty much all the nostalgia you’ll need. Spyglass Board Games is a title that you may want to consider if you’re looking to play the included games against a friend online, but the game is a bit too easy as a single player experience. Approach any purchase decision with that fact in mind.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – WING COMMANDER ARENA & SUPER CONTRA

It’s another double feature week in the Xbox Live Arcade as Wing Commander Arena and Super Contra should be available for purchase by the time you read this.

Wing Commander Arena is an original game from Electronic Arts set in the Wing Commander universe – so those of you expecting a remake of the original Wing Commander are going to be in for a bit of a disappointment. From what I know of this one, it has both a single player mode as well as support for multiplayer dogfights over Xbox Live with up to 16 players. I’ve heard mixed things about the game, so I’d highly recommend you download the demo prior to making any purchase decision about Wing Commander Arena.

In addition to the game itself, StarSoldier Magazine, a downloadable instruction manual done in the style of the classic Wing Commander manuals from back in the game’s PC heyday is available on the game’s Xbox Live Arcade product page. Be sure to check it out.

Title: Wing Commander Arena
Developer: Gaia Industries
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-16
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Wing Commander™ is back with an all-new game, Wing Commander™ Arena, for Xbox LIVE® Arcade. Create a squad and take on your opponents. Use your gravity bombs or fire torpedoes as you try to climb the leaderboard, destroying enemy armadas along the way. Featuring four modes of gameplay, nine maps, and the first 16-player action on Xbox LIVE Arcade, Wing Commander™ Arena is the perfect mix of classic arcade fun and modern multiplayer chaos.

• Sixteen players: Wing Commander Arena offers the largest multiplayer melee experience on Xbox LIVE Arcade, with up to 16-player space combat action.
• Multiple gameplay modes: Four modes of gameplay, including single player, multi-team, multiplayer battle, and duels one-on-one and multiplayer.
• Ships, maps, and more: Eighteen ships are provided including bombers, light and medium fighters. Team maps, free-for-all maps, and dueling maps provide a multitude of environments for your intense battles.
• Classic experience: The classic Wing Commander gameplay is brought to Xbox LIVE Arcade, offering everything a pilot rookie or hardened space combat veteran could want." – Xbox.com

Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not excited at all about our next arcade offering. Super Contra was never a favorite of mine in the arcades, and I doubt anything will change now. As with it’s predecessor Contra, it’s essentially a 2d scrolling shooter, though there are some levels that switch to a more free-form top down format.

Title: Super Contra
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 7/25/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-2
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E (Everyone – Fantasy Violence)
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"The fight for freedom continues in Super Contra! The alien menace, Red Falcon, has fought back and it’s up to Lance and Bill to stop them. Play multiplayer over Xbox LIVE® with upgraded graphics and sound. Do you have what it takes to save the world again?

• Gameplay: Enjoy the authentic original gameplay of the arcade classic. Super Contra features two player co-op gameplay, just like the original.
• Multiplayer: Play co-op on the same console or on Xbox LIVE. Communicate with your buddy by voice using the Xbox 360 headset.
• Leaderboards: Xbox LIVE Leaderboard statistics are kept for Arcade (single player—high score, all time and weekly) and Xbox LIVE co-op (high score—all time and weekly).
• Achievements: Score 12 achievements worth 200 gamer points with a range of simple, challenging, and hard achievements." – Xbox.com

While I passed on last week’s offering Yie Ar Kung-Fu, I did pick up Bomberman Live, and I’ve got to say it’s an excellent rendition of the game – Bomberman fans should not miss it. However, since the Bomberman series tends to be one people seem to either love or hate, be sure to download the demo if you’re unfamiliar with the series.

PLAYSTATION STORE: CASTLEVANIA: SYMPHONY OF THE NIGHT

Today’s PlayStation Store update saw the release of Konami’s classic PlayStation title Castlevania: Symphony of the Night for the PlayStation 3 and PSP. While I won’t be grabbing this one myself, at $9.99 it’s worth every penny for those of you who don’t have some way to play the game. (The only reason I won’t be buying this one is that I already own the original game for the PlayStation (Hooray backwards compatibility!) – and because I also bought the Xbox Live Arcade version)

Please note: I believe this version is a straight port of the original game and does not include any of the enhancements made for the Xbox Live Arcade version. Since no demo is available, I can’t confirm whether or not the original CD soundtrack is included either. You have been warned.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS: CASTLEVANIA: SYMPHONY OF THE NIGHT

This is one of those times when the fact that my Xbox 360 is currently among the ranks of the dead really hurts. By the time most of you read this, Konami’s Xbox 360 port of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is going to be available for download in the Xbox Live Arcade in all of it’s enhanced glory. Symphony was the game that actually introduced me to the Castlevania series, and I remember not being able to put it down for days. I won’t spoil one of the greatest aspects of the game for those of you who’ve never tried it, suffice to say that truly completing the game is more difficult than how it appears to be.

What more can I say about the game beyond it truly is a masterpiece of the genre and for the 800 points ($10) this one is selling for, you’d have to be crazy to skip it.

Title: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Developer: Digital Eclipse
Publisher: Konami Digital Entertainment
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/21/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1
Xbox Live: Yes
HDTV Support: 1080i
Full Game: 800 points ($10)
Rating: T (Teen) – Animated Blood & Gore, Animated Violence
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Recreated and enhanced for Xbox 360™, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is better than before with enhanced graphics, new achievements, and Xbox Live® leaderboards.

Years ago, Richter Belmont faced the nightmare creature Dracula in what was supposed to be the final showdown to rid the world of his evil. Instead, Dracula’s castle has once again risen from the mists to threaten the safety of the world.

Alucard, a mysterious figure with his own motivations, has taken it upon himself to enter the new castle, confront the evil, and attempt to destroy Dracula once and for all. With swords and magic, he must face hordes of undead demons who will attempt to stop him from harming their master. Unknown allies also await Alucard to help him in his journey. Can Alucard uncover the full truth behind the source of Dracula’s power

• Two versions: Play the original version of the game or experience it in enhanced mode with improved graphics and modernized audio and sound effects.
• Non-linear gameplay: Collect items, weapons and armor to defeat the powerful boss monsters that block access to key areas of the castle.
• Xbox 360 enhancements: Earn 12 achievements and 200 Gamerscore points, and check the top players with the online leaderboards." – Xbox.com

As for last week’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I’ve got to say that I really wasn’t overly thrilled with it. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with the game itself, it’s that I forgot just how annoying those boss battles could be from a "constantly dying" perspective. Still, the game controls well and is certain fun when you get a bunch of friends together on Live.

That said, you go pick up Symphony of the Night and I’ll go and sulk in the corner over there. Curse you Red Baron, curse you!

XBLA CASTLEVANIA: SYMPHONY OF THE NIGHT DATED

At long last, Microsoft has revealed the date that Konami’s classic PlayStation title Castlevania: Symphony of the Night will be arriving on Xbox Live Arcade. On March 21st, Alucard will be rising to fight Dracula once more – all for the low cost of 800 points ($10). Thankfully, I have the game on the original PlayStation and can drown my red-ringed sorrows in that version until I’m able to grab the XBLA port.

XBOX LIVE ARCADE WEDNESDAYS – TMNT

I refuse to yell Cowabunga or any other nonsense like that over this one. You see, I was a fan of the original Eastman & Laird Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic back in the day, and if you read that comic, then you know just what a travesty the cartoon series this game is based on was. That said, Konami’s 1989 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game was a great game to play with a couple of friends, and one of the more enjoyable side scrolling beat-em ups out at the time.

Unlike many other Live Arcade titles, I really don’t see there being many control issues with this one, and given the fun the original title was, unless there’s something seriously wrong with this version, I’ll be adding it to my collection. My advice to you however, is to be sure to download the demo first and see what you think of it before committing to a purchase. Better safe than sorry, I always say. Here are the details as listed at Xbox.com – my guess is the whole bit with Konami not publishing the game has to do with who’s currently holding the license to the series.

Title: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Developer: Digital Eclipse / Konami
Publisher: Ubisoft
Genre: Xbox Live Arcade
Release Date: 3/14/07
Console: Xbox 360
Players: 1-4
Xbox Live: Yes
HDTV Support: 720p
Full Game: 400 points ($5)
Rating: E10 (Everyone 10+) – Cartoon Violence
Demo?: Yes

From the Xbox.com product description;

"Everyone’s favorite totally tubular turtles bring their radical ninja skills to Xbox Live Arcade. The 1989 arcade classic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is true to the original arcade classic.

Choose from one of four Ninja Turtles—Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, or Raphael—and master their unique ninja weapons and abilities. Play through the original seven levels alone, or with up to three others cooperatively via Xbox Live.

• Classic gameplay: Re-live the nostalgia of the original 1989 arcade classic on Xbox 360.
• Different turtles: Choose from one of four Ninja Turtles—Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello or Raphael—and master their unique ninja butt-kickin’ abilities.
• Comic book characters: Interact with unforgettable characters, including Splinter, Casey Jones, April O’Neal, Baxter Stockman, and Shredder." – Xbox.com

On a side note, while I didn’t pick up Worms last week, I did pick up Paperboy. I’ve got to say I was pleasantly surprised at how well the Xbox 360’s controller worked with the game and have had a pretty good time with the title. If you were a big fan of the original arcade machine, I’d probably tell you to move this one up to "buy" on your list.

XBOX 360 WINNING ELEVEN PRO EVOLUTION SOCCER 2007 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

Just a quick note here – a demo of Konami’s Winning Eleven Pro Evolution Soccer 2007 is now available for Xbox Live Gold members in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The demo weighs in at approximately 1.2gb as per Xbox Live Director of Programming, Larry "Major Nelson" Hyrb.

• Demo: Winning Eleven Pro Evolution Soccer 2007 – Major Nelson
• Winning Eleven Pro Evolution Soccer 2007 – Konami.com

RUMBLE ROSES XX 360 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo for Konami’s Rumble Roses XX is now available for the Xbox 360 in the Xbox Live Marketplace. The download weighs in at 854.31mb and is probably as bad as the full version of the game.

I rented it back when it first came out because I had played and enjoyed the first Rumble Roses on the Playstation 2, call it a guilty pleasure if you must, but it was a decent wrestler. However, I was greatly disappointed by XX. The game was all about the jiggle while the gameplay itself seemed to have been neglected as a result. Still, I sense a grave disturbance in the force, as if millions of horny teenage gamers suddenly cried out in glee and then started downloading.

RONDO OF BLOOD PC PORT PROJECT

The folks over at PCEngineFX.com have unveiled a working build of the classic PCEngine SuperCD game Demon Castle Dracula X: Rondo of Blood. Not to be confused with the lackluster SNES Castlevania: Dracula X, this version aims to recreate all the things that made the original, unreleased in the U.S. game, special. This is the first full public build of the homebrew, so keep in mind there are still a lot of bugs to be worked out. Click here to head on over to PCEngineFX’s Dracula X PC Port page.

NEW METAL GEAR SOLID GAME COMING TO PSP

Gamespot is reporting that Hideo Kojima put announced a new Metal Gear Solid game for the PSP. Unlike the previous games, Konami is promising this one will be a true Metal Gear action game and takes place in 1970 highlighting Big Boss and the formation of Foxhound.

CASTLEVANIA: PORTRAIT OF RUIN OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED

Konami has officially announced the next game in the Castlevania series. Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin will be appearing on the Nintendo DS this fall. From the press release;

"In Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin, players take on the role of vampire hunter Jonathan Morris and Charlotte Orlean, a young girl with tremendous magical abilities. Amidst the chaos of World War II, many lost souls from the global conflict were left to wander the world in search of salvation. Desperate to escape their terrible plight, they sought to resurrect Dracula’s Castle from the rubble of society, assisted by two mysterious vampire sisters. Now Jonathan and Charlotte must work together to confront the face of evil and ensure that this villainous catastrophe is not unleashed on the world.

Evolving the action-adventure gameplay that has been the series’ trademark for 20 years, Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin lets players switch freely between Jonathan and Charlotte as they proceed on their heroic mission, each with their own strengths, abilities and style of play. Players can now utilize powerful Summon attacks in which both characters unleash the full extent of their combat abilities to decimate the game’s more than 100 different enemies and massive bosses in new environments such as the desert and Misty Town. In their quest to stop Dracula’s resurrection, Jonathan and Charlotte can collect and use different weapons, equipment and items to increase their overall skill level and acquire new abilities."

Yet another reason for me to run out and grab a DS – Hopefully the DS-Lite will be out in the U.S. by then.