LORD OF THE RINGS ONLINE EXPANSION ANNOUNCED

Turbine, Inc. has officially anounced that the first expansion for Lord of the Rings Online, it's mmog based on Tolkein's legendary trilogy, will be available at retail this fall.

"Turbine, Inc. and Codemasters Online today unveiled Volume II of The Lord of the Rings Online™, the first retail expansion for the award-winning massively multiplayer online roleplaying game (MMORPG).  Announced in Birmingham, the childhood home of J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings Online™: Mines of Moria™  will expand the online world of Middle-earth to let players explore the ancient underground cities of the dwarves, battle epic characters in the depths, face off with the Watcher, be a part of the fateful release of Durin’s Bane and more! The Lord of the Rings Online expects to open Volume II of its epic story in the fall of 2008 with an increased level cap, two new classes and the introduction of a unique item advancement system.

“The Mines of Moria is one of the most epic settings in all of fantasy fiction,” said Jim Crowley, president and CEO of Turbine, Inc. “No one delivers more quality content than Turbine and with our journey into Moria, we will raise the bar even higher.  We are adding vast amounts of  content, debuting massive new environments and unveiling numerous unique feature sets, like item advancement, which will create entirely new dimensions of compelling game play and social interaction which are unique to The Lord of the Rings Online experience.” " – Turbine Entertainment press release 

Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria will open the second volume of the trilogy and includes not only the six "chapters" included with the expansion at it's release, but access several more as of yet unreleased chapters. In addition, the expansion will also see the addition of two new character classes (Rune-Keeper and Warden), an increased level cap of 70 and the ability to forge "legendary" items.

For more information on both Lord of the Rings Online and the Mines of Moria expansion, including the full text of the press release, check out the links below.

• Turbine, Inc. – Company website
• The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria Unveiled at Connect 08 – Official press release
• The Lord of the Rings Online – Official website
• The Lord of the Rings Online: Mines of Moria – Promotional website

WARBEARS ADVENTURE: AN A.R. X-MAS NOW ONLINE

Earlier today, I stopped in on our friends the Warbears to see how their holidays were, and was surprised to find that our favorite fighting bears had taken on a mission of sorts while we were all drinking our eggnog. That's right, there's a new short Warbears adventure available at the series' official site – Adventure: An A.R. X-Mas lets us join up with Warbears as they do a little Christmas shopping. 

If you like graphic adventure/puzzle solving games, this free web-based series is certainly something to check out. Enjoy!

• Warbears – Official website
• Adventure: An A.R. X-Mas – Warbears

BIOSHOCK UPDATE AND PLASMID PACK NOW AVAILABLE

Just a quick note here for those of you with BioShock for either Windows or the Xbox 360 – an update for the game is now available via the Xbox Live Marketplace (Xbox 360 version) or your favorite file download site (Windows version).

This update not only fixes several issues with the game, including the game's "widescreen" issues (it will now play in true widescreen), but also adds new plasmids and tonics to further enhance the experience that is the City of Rapture. It's a free download, so be sure to check it out!

• BioShock – Official website
• The Cult of Rapture – 2KGames

NEW WARBEARS ADVENTURE AVAILABLE ONLINE

It's been awhile since I've had anything new to report about our crime fighting friends the Warbears, but thankfully series creator Gionatan "Ioji" Iasio has been busy working on their latest adventure – and now it's ready for the world to play. Warbears: Mission 03 – An Oceanic Problem sees the ursine quartet responding to a distress signal coming from an offshore platform with a sinister secret…

"An S.O.S. signal from the Gas Platform in the Great Ocean! A new enemy surfaced with an evil plan. Will the Warbears be able to stop them?" – Warbears.com

As always. this Warbears adventure is a free, web based game, so if you like puzzle intensive graphic adventure games, you have absolutely no excuse not to check it out! 

• Warbears – Official website 

SAM & MAX SEASON TWO BEGINS TODAY

While it hasn't made it's appearance in Telltale Games' store at the time of this posting, Sam & Max Episode 201: Ice Station Santa, the first episode of Season Two, is due to make public debut at Telltale's website following a one-day exclusive premiere on Gametap.

While I admit I was a little disappointed in the way season one was handled, I've got enough love in my heart for everyone's favorite dog and rabbit duo to be willing to pre-order another full season on faith alone. Here's to hoping Telltale can capture some of that old school LucasArts magic this time around.

Sam & Max Episode 201: Ice Station Santa will be priced at $8.95 and a discounted full season price of $34.95 will be offered to those willing to order all five of the episodes at once. As with Season One, at the end of it's run in April, those who pre-ordered the full season will be given the option of obtaining all five episodes on disc for the cost of shipping.

• Telltale Games – Official website
• Sam & Max: Season Two – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX SEASON TWO BEGINS TODAY

While it hasn't made it's appearance in Telltale Games' store at the time of this posting, Sam & Max Episode 201: Ice Station Santa, the first episode of Season Two, is due to make public debut at Telltale's website following a one-day exclusive premiere on Gametap.

While I admit I was a little disappointed in the way season one was handled, I've got enough love in my heart for everyone's favorite dog and rabbit duo to be willing to pre-order another full season on faith alone. Here's to hoping Telltale can capture some of that old school LucasArts magic this time around.

Sam & Max Episode 201: Ice Station Santa will be priced at $8.95 and a discounted full season price of $34.95 will be offered to those willing to order all five of the episodes at once. As with Season One, at the end of it's run in April, those who pre-ordered the full season will be given the option of obtaining all five episodes on disc for the cost of shipping.

• Telltale Games – Official website
• Sam & Max: Season Two – Telltale Games

TELLTALE GAMES OFFERS FREE SAM & MAX EPISODE!

The good folks over at Telltale Games have announced that they're offering Sam & Max: Abe Lincoln Must Die (Season One, Episode Four) for the low, low price of free. That's right gang, you too can now try out an episodic adventure of everyone's favorite dog and rabbity thing without having to shell out a single penny.

Telltale's site seems to be down at the moment (no doubt because they're gearing up for the launch of Sam & Max Season Two), but they have been kind enough to leave the download link on their "we're sorry" page as well. Be sure to check it out!

• Abe Lincoln Must Die free for all (literally!) – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max: Abe Lincoln Must Die – Telltale Games
• Telltale Games: Under the Knife – Telltale Game

TELLTALE GAMES OFFERS FREE SAM & MAX EPISODE!

The good folks over at Telltale Games have announced that they're offering Sam & Max: Abe Lincoln Must Die (Season One, Episode Four) for the low, low price of free. That's right gang, you too can now try out an episodic adventure of everyone's favorite dog and rabbity thing without having to shell out a single penny.

Telltale's site seems to be down at the moment (no doubt because they're gearing up for the launch of Sam & Max Season Two), but they have been kind enough to leave the download link on their "we're sorry" page as well. Be sure to check it out!

• Abe Lincoln Must Die free for all (literally!) – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max: Abe Lincoln Must Die – Telltale Games
• Telltale Games: Under the Knife – Telltale Game

CRYSIS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE FOR WINDOWS

A single player demo of Crytek's highly anticipated shooter Crysis is now available for the PC via most of your favorite file download sites. Approximate download size is 1.77GB.

Please note: Crytek strongly recommends that you update your video drivers before attempting to play this demo.

• Crysis – Official website

TABULA RASA OPEN BETA INVITES AVAILABLE AT FILEPLANET

Those of you who are burned out on World of Warcraft and the other available MMOGs and have been hoping that NCSoft’s upcoming Tabula Rasa (designed by Richard “Lord British” Garriott of Ultima series fame) will rekindle your interest in the genre should be aware that Fileplanet still has a limited number of keys left for the open beta test running through October 26th. If you want to give it a shot and see if it’s for you, be sure to grab one as soon as possible.

I’ve followed this one a bit over the last few months, and did grab a beta invite from Fileplanet, so if I get a chance to put some time in with it and it’s something worth talking about, I’ll throw up a post sometime after the 26th… or before that if it’s really amazing.

• Tabula Rasa – Official website
• Tabula Rasa: Fileplanet Beta Event – Fileplanet

PC BETA DEMO OF UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 NOW AVAILABLE

Yes, I’m a little behind with this update, but a PC BETA demo of Epic Games’ Unreal Tournament 3 is now available for download from most of your favorite PC file download sites. Download package is approximately 741MB.

Please note: as stated above, this is a BETA demo, and as such may contain numerous bugs and glitches as well as some instability. There have been quite a few reports of the game not running properly or causing other system problems after installation. While I can’t vouch for the system stability issues, I will say that I never managed to get the demo to run acceptably.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website

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

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

“Fighter’s Stronghold – DLC6

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

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

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

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

PC CALL OF DUTY 4: MODERN WARFARE DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A Windows PC demo of Activision’s Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare is now available for download from most of your favorite PC file download sites. The demo contains one mission from the single player campaign and weighs in at approximately 1.37GB.

• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare – Official website

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR CRYSIS ANNOUNCED

Ever since it’s announcement, the question of just how powerful of a system Crytek’s upcoming PC shooter Crysis would require to be playable at any level. Although numbers have been thrown around for months now, Crytek was never officially willing to say exactly where they were going to set the bare bones entry level point for the game… until now.

Yes, Crytek & Electronic Arts have finally announced both the minimum and recommended system specs for Crysis – and, as expected, they’re damn high… “How high?” you ask?

Crysis: Minimum System Requirements
Operating System: Windows XP or Windows Vista
Processor: 2.8GHz or faster (XP); 3.2GHz or faster* (Vista)
Memory: 1GB RAM or 1.5GB RAM (Vista)
Video Card: 256MB**
Hard Drive: 12GB
Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible

* Supported Processors: Intel Pentium 4 2.8GHz (3.2GHz for Vista) or faster, Intel Core 2GHz (2.2GHz for Vista) or faster, and other similar CPUs.

** Supported chipsets: NVIDIA GeForce 6800 GT + or similar GPUs. Laptop versions of these chipsets may work but are not supported. Integrated chipsets are not supported. Updates to your video and sound card drivers may be required.

Now then, keep in mind that the above are the MINIMUM system requirements for Crysis. The recommended system specs make the following changes;

Crysis: Recommended System Requirements:
Operating System: Windows XP / Vista
Processor: Intel Core 2 DUO @ 2.2GHz
Memory: 2GB RAM
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GTS/640 or similar

Based on the above specs, my PC will just barely miss the minimum system specs (my processor is just a bit too slow – no comments from the peanut gallery, please), so it looks like I’ll be sitting this one out until I either build a new PC or the game gets ported over to a console. It’s certainly a bit depressing, as after having played the game a little at DigitalLife ’07, I was hoping that there would be a chance for me to be able to experience this one in full.

If your system meets the required specs, congratulations – Crysis should be one hell of an experience. If your system fell short… well, either start planning on making some upgrades between now and the game’s November 16th ship date.

• Crysis – Official website
• Is Your Rig Ready for Crysis? – Official website

DIGITALLIFE ‘07 – HANDS-ON: GEARS OF WAR (PC)

Those of you who’ve been coming to the site for awhile have probably guessed that one of the games I was hoping would make an appearance at DigitalLife ’07 was the Windows version of Gears of War. While many of the titles I was hoping to get a chance to play were no-shows, I’m glad to report that Gears was indeed playable on the show floor.

Perhaps the best place to start is with this statement… it’s Gears of War. The section of the game I had the chance to play through took me from Marcus & Dom’s escape from Jacinto Penitentiary, through the meeting with Colonel Hoffman and into the battles in the ruins. Through that part of the game, the Windows port offered the exact same gameplay experience as the Xbox 360 original.

So what is going to make this version of Gears worth purchasing? Well, naturally if you don’t have an Xbox 360, this will be your first chance to play Epic’s masterpiece – and Gears remains an experience that should not be missed. In addition, the PC version will contain five new campaign chapters not found on the 360 (and, according to Epic Games VP Mark Rein, due to changes made to Unreal Engine 3 since the 360 version of Gears was released, these chapters will never be coming to the 360)

Beyond those five chapters, there is one other truly stunning difference between the two versions… the graphics. Simply put, if you thought the Xbox 360 version of Gears was a thing of beauty, you haven’t seen anything yet. The game looked absolutely amazing running on the kiosks in the Microsoft Games booth. Everyone I spoke with playing or watching the game could not get over just how good Gears looked. While I’m sure reaching that level of graphics at home is going to take a monster of a system, if you’ve got it, you’re going to see details that truly make the game a visual treat.

Control wise, the game was set up to be played with keyboard and mouse, and after a bit of trial and error, I was able to easily perform the same maneuvers I could pull off using the Xbox 360 control pad. The only place I noticed any kind of issue was when attempting to take cover from a standing position (as opposed to getting under cover using roadie-run). To be honest, I’m pretty sure that problem was more tied to my unfamiliarity with the keyboard controls. Beyond that one complaint, the default scheme worked quite well – though I will admit that should I decide to pick this one up, I’ll probably find myself using an Xbox 360 controller for familiarity’s sake.

So, what else is there to say? The game seemed extremely stable on the demo PC provided and there were no signs of slowdown or glitches evident. All signs seem to point towards Gears of War being a standout title.

In summing things up, my advice to those who have a system that can handle the game – and haven’t had a chance to play through Gears on the 360 – is to immediately add this one to your “must have” list. As I said earlier, Gears of War truly is an experience you should not miss. However, If you’ve already played the game to death on the 360, you’ll need to judge whether or not the five new chapters will justify the $49.99 price tag the game will carry.

The Windows PC version of Gears of War is scheduled to release on November 6th, 2007.

• Gears of War – Official website

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: A VAMPYRE STORY

If you’re a regular reader of this site, then by now you know that I hold a special place in my heart for point-and-click graphic adventure games. Simply put, when done right they allow a level of story telling, humor and puzzle solving that other game types can’t even come close to matching. It’s because of that love that I’m bringing you this early trailer for Autumn Moon Entertainment’s upcoming game A Vampire Story.

In this one, you take the role of reluctant vampire Mona De Lafitte, an aspiring opera star who was kidnapped – and made a vampire – by her obsessed vampiric fan Baron Shrowdy von Kiefer. Mona, along with her companion Froderick the bat, will have to try to escape the Baron’s clutches, come to grips with her unlife and try to fulfill her dreams of becoming a star. I think you’ll agree there’s just tons of potential for hilarity here.

It’s being developed by another group of ex-LucasArts employees and seems to be on target to hit that perfect mix I just mentioned. Once you get past the cheezy voice-over for the below trailer, I think you’ll agree. Check it out.

A Vampyre Story is currently slated for an early 2008 release on Windows PCs.

• Autumn Moon Entertainment – Company website
• A Vampyre Story – Official wesbite
• A Vampyre Story TGS ’07 Trailer – GameTrailers.com

PC ENEMY TERRITORY: QUAKE WARS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of id Software’s Enemy Territory: Quake Wars is now available for the PC from any one of your favorite file download locations. The demo allows both single player (with bots) and multiplayer play. Approximate download size is 727MB.

• Enemy Territory: Quake Wars – Official website
• Play ETQW Now – id Software

BIOSHOCK BIG DADDY BROKEN FIGURINE SUPPORT WEBSITE NOW OPEN

Last week we told you about an issue where many of the figurines included with the collector’s edition of BioShock had been damaged in shipment and that because of this, 2K Games would be setting up a website where consumers could request a replacement figurine from the company and get a printed version of the previously downloadable only “Breaking the Mold” art book for their troubles.

That site is now active, so if your Big Daddy arrived in less than pristine condition, now is the time to go about letting them know. Full instructions for the return process are included on the site – with the exception of what carrier they use for the return.

• BioShock – Official website
• Return Broken BioShock Figure, Get BioShock Art Book – Kotaku
• Big Daddy Figurine Issue – 2K Games
• BioShock: Breaking the Mold – The Cult of Rapture

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: PENNY ARCADE ADVENTURES

The Penny Arcade Expo is winding down today, but one of the things to come out of this year’s show is an updated look at Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness. In addition to the news that the game will be available in early 2008 for Windows, Mac OS-X, Linux and the Xbox 360 via the Xbox Live Arcade, the gang from Hothead Games debuted a new trailer which shows the game off in a more polished, playable looking form.

Perhaps the biggest news is that the player won’t play as either Tycho or Gabe, but rather will play alongside them with custom created characters. The description of the gameplay itself makes it sound like a cross between an action/adventure title and a traditional turn based role playing game. Word is the game maintains the same edge as the webcomic, so expect the ESRB to hand down a M rating when the time comes.

This one looks like it could go either way at this point, but so far the hands-on impressions coming out of PAX are generally positive. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on this one as more information becomes available.

• Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness – Official site
• Penny Arcade – Official site
• Hothead Games – Official site
• Penny Arcade Expo – Official site

DROP BIOSHOCK COLLECTOR’S EDITION BOX, GET AN ART BOOK?

If you’ve been following all the BioShock news, you may have heard the rumor that many of the Big Daddy figurines included with the Collector’s Edition have been damaged in shipment. If you happen to be one of the "lucky" few who get a broken Big Daddy, don’t despair – it may be a blessing in disguise. According to a post over at Kotaku, 2K Games will be making replacement figurines available to those who received broken figurines. As an added bonus, because of the delay involved in receiving a replacement, 2K will be sending out printed versions of the downloadable art book available at the Cult of Rapture website.

Now then, before you go and do anything like "accidentally" breaking your Big Daddy figure, keep in mind that 2K has not yet posted any specific requirements for getting a replacement figure or the art book. The information on the replacement policy will be posted at this link once 2K has made all the details available.

• BioShock – Official website
• Return Broken BioShock Figure, Get BioShock Art Book – Kotaku
• Big Daddy Figurine Issue – 2K Games
• BioShock: Breaking the Mold – The Cult of Rapture

BIOSHOCK $10 OFF AT CIRCUIT CITY

I’m telling you, this is actually getting funny. Halfway through typing that last story, I glanced over at the Sunday paper and notices that this week’s Circuit City flyer has both versions of BioShock listed as on sale starting Tuesday. The sale knocks ten dollars off the price of each, so you can grab the Xbox 360 version of the game for $49.99 and the PC version for $39.99. The sale price is apparently also available online (though who would want to wait for the game to arrive in the mail?)

If you haven’t pre-ordered already, this could certainly be the way to go. I wouldn’t expect quantities to last long at this price, so if you plan on taking advantage of the sale, be sure to order online or get there as soon as possible on Tuesday.

• BioShock – Official website
• Circuit City: Bioshock (Xbox 360) – CircuitCity.com
• Circuit City: Bioshock (PC) – CircuitCity.com

BIOSHOCK DOWNLOADABLE ART BOOK AVAILABLE

No sooner did I finish writing that last article did I remember what I actually wanted to tell you about today – always seems to work like that, doesn’t it? 2K Games Cult of Rapture website has a downloadable book featuring art from their upcoming title BioShock. The book was originally one of the options gamers voted on for inclusion in the Collector’s Edition boxed set, but apparently it lost out to the Big Daddy figure, the mini-soundtrack CD and the making of DVD. (Ok, I get how it could lose to the Big Daddy figurine, but to be voted down as opposed to a mini-soundtrack and "making of" disc? what were those people thinking?)

Anyway, the book is available in both standard and high definition formats and can be downloaded via this link. One word of warning – 2K’s Elizabeth Tobey advises that you NOT read the forward of the book until you’ve actually played through the game as it contains several spoilers. I’d suggest downloading it but not actually looking at it until you’re done just to be safe.

• BioShock – Official website
• The Cult of Rapture – 2K Games
• BioShock: Breaking the Mold – The Cult of Rapture

BIOSHOCK SETTING THE WORLD ON FIRE

If you’re like me, you’re no doubt sitting around right now cursing the fact that you weren’t able to secure one of those copies of BioShock that was sold a week too early. While I can take come solace in the fact that in just a few days I’ll have not only the game, but a Big Daddy statue to put on my desk, that knowledge isn’t doing me too much good as I look at all the reviews for BioShock popping up across the internet.

Those reviews are what we’re here to talk about today – for want of a less cliche’ d tagline, BioShock is indeed setting the world on fire. The reviews coming in on the game are, without exception, all near perfect. It’s rare that you hear a game not get bagged on anywhere, so I thought I’d give everyone a chance to read most of those reviews for themselves. Let’s tale a look, shall we? (Click on the below links to head over to the reviews they represent – thanks to Tenwyn over at Gamer’s Lounge for finding two of these early reviews)

• Destructoid: 10 / 10
• IGN: 9.7 / 10
• GameSpy: 5 / 5
• GamePro: 5 / 5
• 1UP.com: 10 / 10
• GameInformer: 10 / 10
• Eurogamer: 10 / 10
• GamesRadar: 10 / 10

In related news, Kotaku is reporting that GameStop has stopped taking orders for the limited edition of BioShock – guess this time it really was limited… that or advance word on the game has become so great that it’s already massively selling above it’s original estimates.

No matter what the story is on the Limited Edition or the above reviews, it really looks like Xbox 360 and PC owners are going to be in for a treat next week. I guess I’ll just have to console myself (no pun intended…maybe) by playing the demo over and over until Tuesday.

• BioShock – Official website
• Gamestop/EB Games No Longer Taking Bioshock LE Pre-Orders – Kotaku

WORLD OF WARCRAFT: WRATH OF THE LICH KING ANNOUNCED

Yesterday’s BlizzCon event saw many thrilling announcements come from Blizzard, however none were perhaps as large as the unveiling of the next expansion for World of Warcraft. Wrath of the Lich King will continue the evolving story on Azeroth, as one can only guess that all the time the world’s heroes have spent in Outland has given the Lich King Arthas time to consolidate his power and threaten the world once more…

“In the cold, harsh northlands…

The Lich King Arthas has set in motion events that could lead to the extinction of all life on Azeroth. With the armies of the undead and the necromantic power of the plague threatening to sweep across the land, only the mightiest heroes can oppose the Lich King’s will and end his reign of terror for all time.

Blizzard Entertainment’s latest expansion to World of Warcraft – Wrath of the Lich King – adds a host of epic content to the existing game world. Players will achieve soaring levels of power, explore a vast new continent, and battle other high-level heroes to determine the fate of Azeroth. As you pit yourself against the dangers of the north, prepare to:

• Master the necromantic powers of the Death Knight – World of Warcraft’s first Hero class.
• Quest to level 80, gaining potent new abilities and talents along the way.
• Learn the craft of spell augmentation with the new Inscription profession.
• Brave the harsh new continent of Northrend, the icy domain of the Lich King.
• Engage in epic siege warfare, deploying mighty siege engines to lay waste to destructible buildings in your path.
• Transform your hero’s look with new character-customization options, including new hairstyles and dances.
• Explore perilous new dungeons filled with some of the deadliest creatures — and greatest treasures — on Azeroth.
• And much, much more…” – World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King product page

I was out. I had freed myself of the curse of World of Warcraft. Unfortunately, I’ve played some form of evil knight in every mmog I’ve every played, and the fact that it looked like Blizzard was never going to add hero classes (and thus, Death Knights) to the game was one of the many factors in my calling it quits. I guess I’ll have to start levelling up again. Ugh.

• World of Warcraft – Official website
• World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King – Product page at WorldofWarcraft.com

ELECTRONIC ARTS DATES CRYSIS

Electronic Arts has announced that Crysis, the game that will make your video card cry for mercy, will be hitting retail shelves here in the U.S. on November 16th of this year.

This gives most of you almost three and a half months to have that break-up talk with your current card. Just remember, it’s not them, it’s you.

• Crysis – Official website

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

TELLTALE GAMES ANNOUNCES SAM & MAX: SEASON 2

Just a quick note here to let everyone know that Telltale Games has announced that Sam & Max will be returning for a second season this fall. While I’m absolutely thrilled by this news, I do hope that Telltale takes the criticisms of Season One to heart and makes the game a bit more involved this time around. Check out a screenshot from the new season below.

Let the cheering commence.

• Telltale Games – Company website
• Sam & Max Season Two News! – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max Season One – Telltale Games
• Sam & Max – Wikipedia entry

CIVILIZATION IV: BEYOND THE SWORD IN STORES, HAS ZOMBIES

This… this may be my last post. It’s here now, and it knows where I am. I’ve tried to fight it, but it knows I’m weak. Before this night is through, only one of us will remain – and I know it will not be me.

I will tell you my story…

Some of you who are about to see the picture I’m about to post will understand, because you may have once been among the affected.

Maybe you’ve only had a small taste and weren’t completely hooked, maybe you’ve spent years fighting it as I have, or maybe you were in remission until this very moment… if that’s the case, I do apologize for what I am about to do…

The rest of you… have no idea. None at all.

Tell them I tried, I truly did, but it comes again… the madness comes again.

Okay, melodrama aside, I do have a few things I want to say about the release of Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword before it completely takes over my life;

1. According to the box, they’ve added 10 new civilizations, 64 new buildings, 11 scenarios, 5 wonders, 6 new technologies, corporations, a new espionage system and expanded trade routes. Sounds pretty nifty to me.
2. One of those new scenarios is something that I can’t wait to play – apparently “Afterworld” is a scenario where it’s you against the zombie uprising. It’s a good thing I’ve got my copy of the Zombie Survival Guide on hand, otherwise it could be over fast.
3. Despite the pedigree the Civilization series has, my local store only got 1-3 copies of the game in – and according to their website, there are no more on the way. While I’m glad I managed to get the last one, it really is sad to see how far the PC game industry has fallen at retail. I mean, this was not your average throwaway PC title.
4. Am I the only one who is bothered when you get that last copy of a game at a store and it’s been opened and used as a display model? Sure, they may have shrink wrapped the contents, but I always wonder if I’m really getting everything that was in the box.

Looking at it, the only real question is whether I try a full game or that Afterworld scenario first. I’m thinking zombies for the win, Chuck.

• Civilization – Official series website
• Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword – Product page at Civilization.com

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: CRYSIS

You thought we were out of first person shooters to show off, didn’t you? Well, I figured that since we’ve spent the last three days showing you the upcoming exclusive shooters for each of the console systems, we’d show the PC a little love too. As such, we’ve got some new footage of Crytek’s Crysis, and, as has been the case with the game from day one, it looks stunning.

I’m assuming that the video you’re about to watch takes place early stages of the game, as it appears that the player is still facing off against human enemies instead of an alien invasion. Perhaps the most interesting feature displayed in the video is that the player seems to be employing some kind of cloaking device during their infiltration of the enemy camp.

Crysis – the game so beautiful it will make your video card cry. Let’s check it out;

Crysis is scheduled to release for Windows PC’s on September 4th, 2007. Despite rumors to the contrary, there are no official plans for the game to appear on any of the latest consoles at this time.

• Crysis – Official website
• Crysis – Wikipedia entry
• Crysis – Video page at GameTrailers.com
• Crysis E3 2007 Gameplay Trailer – GameTrailers.com

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

• F.E.A.R. – Official website

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

TELLTALE’S SAM & MAX SERIES HEADED FOR RETAIL

Telltale Games has announced that they’ve entered into a partnership with The Adventure Company to offer a retail version of all six episodes of Sam & Max: Season One a few months after the series is complete. While no price point has been set at this time, the press release does mention that the boxed set is expected t hit retail some time this August.

One thing I’m hoping is that this isn’t going to become a case where the people who pre-ordered the first season in it’s entirety specifically for the chance to buy the game on disc at the end of the current season get screwed as an even more "complete" version becomes available for nearly the same price in stores. Right now, the only information available on this matter is the following quote made by a Telltale employee on the official company forums in reference to the question of whether the retail version will be the same as the one offered to Season One subscribers;

"No, we’ll be doing our own packaged version for season holders. And no, before you ask, it’s not “the cheap version,” it’s just a different version. Promise.

Also, we can’t tell you what will be on the Telltalegames.com Season Set customers’ version, or what will be on the TAC version, or how they’ll be different, etc etc yet because we haven’t figured any of that out yet! We’ll let you know, though, with requisite trumpets, cherubs etc." – Jake, Telltale Games forums administrator

We’ll keep you updated on this story as more information becomes available in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.

• The Adventure Company and Telltale Announce Partnership to Bring Sam & Max: Season 1 to Retail – Official press release
• Telltale Games – Official website
• The Adventure Company – Official website
• Sam & Max Retail CD Announced – Telltale Games Forums

GAMES FOR WINDOWS LIVE LAUNCHES MAY 8TH

Microsoft has announced that their Games for Windows – Live service will be launching on May 8th and, as with Xbox Live, will be available in 2 flavors – Gold and Silver. For those of you who missed the memo, Games for Windows – Live is Microsoft’s attempt to bring an "Xbox Live" type experience to PC gamers. Before we talk about just what GFW – Live is, let’s first talk about the biggest issue that’s been floated about on this one, and that’s the subject of PC gamers having to pay a fee in order to play games online.

Despite rumors to the contrary, it would appear that Microsoft is not expecting PC gamers to pay for the privilege of playing their purchases online. According to the press release, the ability for PC gamers to play against other PC gamers will be included in the free Games for Windows – Live Silver membership. Based on the information available, it would appear that pay "Gold" level membership (priced at $50 per year) is geared towards those who want to use custom online matchmaking tools or those who wish to play the upcoming cross-platform PC/Xbox 360 titles against Xbox 360 owners. In addition, Microsoft has also advised that the two services (Xbox Live and GFW-Live) are part of a unified service. If you have one, you have both – so there are no additional fees involved for Gold members of either service. Gamertags will also be linked across the two services, so existing Xbox Live members won’t have to stress over having to use two different identities between the services..

So what do you get with each service? Well, according to yesterday’s press release the following features are included with the two levels of service;

• Silver (Free) Membership Features
  • Single gamertag
  • Common gamer profile
  • Common gamerscore
  • Single player achievements
  • Private chat via text and voice
  • Common friends list and online presence
  • PC only multiplayer including browsing a list of active PC games

• Gold ($50 per year) Membership Features
  • All Silver membership features
  • Multiplayer matchmaking with friends
  • TrueSkill™ matchmaking
  • Multiplayer achievements
  • Cross-platform gameplay

While I for one would certainly welcome a simple, universal way to play PC titles against friends, I really do wonder just how Microsoft plans on pulling this one off. Unlike the Xbox brand, Microsoft really has little control over the PC game market, so the idea of them being able to control a universal service for online PC gameplay seems a bit far-fetched. Rather, I see this as becoming more of a service that PC developers will be able to use as an additional advertising tool for their titles. Further, with the direction Microsoft seems to be taking Games for Windows (using it to push games that will only run under Windows Vista), I really do have to wonder just how much of a benefit the service will be in the near future.

For those of you who want all the juicy details about the upcoming service, check out the full press release at this link. If that’s not enough for you, check out this FAQ on the service over at the Games for Windows site. For those of you who don’t, you may now return to your regularly scheduled internet surfing.

• Microsoft Unites Xbox and PC Gamers With Debut of Games for Windows — LIVE – Gamerscore Blog
• Games for Windows – Live FAQ – Games for Windows

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: SPORE AT GDC’07

Seeing how Spore is one of those games that everyone wants despite not really knowing how exactly the game will play, I’ve decided to post another short video on it from this year’s Game Developer’s Conference.

The video you’re about to watch seems to break down how each phase of your creation’s existence will play out from the cellular level to space exploration. There’s no dialog or explanation to go along with the video, so you’re going to be on your own as far as putting it into context. One thing I will say is that it definitely looks like some strategic elements are being added to the game, and I really do like the apparent feature of designing your own civilizations weapons as well. Check it out below;

• Spore – Official website
• Spore videos shown at GDC’07 – YouTube

LAZY DAY TRAILERS – BIOSHOCK: HUNTING THE BIG DADDY

Today I’ve got a video of Irrational Games upcoming title BioShock for you. This video, titled "Hunting the Big Daddy", focuses on some of the unique combat aspects of the game while showcasing some truly stunning visuals. I’ve been on the fence for awhile now about BioShock, but this video has certainly improved my opinion of the title.

BioShock is being published by 2K Games and is currently slated to release exclusively on the Xbox 360 and Windows XP/Vista platforms on August 21st, 2007.

• BioShock – Official website
• Irrational Games – Official website
• 2K Games – Official website
• BioShock: Hunting the Big Daddy – YouTube
• BioShock – Wikipedia Entry

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games

SAM & MAX: EPISODE 4 – ABE LINCOLN MUST DIE NOW AVAILABLE

Telltale Games dropped me a note to say that Sam & Max: Episode 4 – Abe Lincoln Must Die is now available for download to those who have pre-purchased the entire first season of the series. Those of you who are picking up the series episode by episode will unfortunately still have to wait for the previously announced March 8th release date.

"That’s right, Season 1 customers can get Abe Lincoln Must Die! starting today, a full week before the general episode 4 release on March 8.

Why? Well, there are many reasons, but one of the biggest is that we love you.

If you’re a Season 1 customer you should have received an email today with a download link. Didn’t get it? Go here for other download options.

As Abe Lincoln would say, “The time to act is now…” – Telltale Games