From the press release:

Today, 2K Games released the original score to BioShock as a free download on The Cult of Rapture website. The score was created by film, television and video game composer Garry Schyman and features a combination of early twentieth century writing, aleatoric elements, musique concrete, traditional tonal and late romantic styles that capture the distinct retro-futuristic aesthetic of the game. To download the score for free, please visit The Cult of Rapture at: http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture.

From the press release:

New York, NY – 2K Games, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), announced today that it will publish Borderlands™, the latest release from acclaimed developer Gearbox Software, for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Games for Windows®. As the first title in an all-new sci-fi action franchise, Borderlands combines the best elements of Gearbox Software’s famed first-person action titles with player customization and vehicular combat to create an unprecedented gaming experience.

Gearbox Software has developed revolutionary new technology to create Borderlands’ incredible layers of gameplay depth. Borderlands features a groundbreaking content generation system allowing for near-endless variety in missions, environments, enemies, weapons, item drops and character customization.

“Borderlands represents an important evolutionary leap in game design and technology,” said Christoph Hartmann, President of 2K. “By utilizing revolutionary new technology to create thousands of unique, randomly generated missions, weapons and situations, Borderlands will raise the bar for next gen action games.”

Borderlands is an extraordinary cooperative experience, allowing for multiple players to share the same game experience simultaneously online. Players can freely join or leave each other’s games at anytime, or choose to play in the full single-player mode. Borderlands features life-like character animations, impressive real-time physics, and customizable vehicles.

“Borderlands creates a universe of gameplay that goes far beyond anything anyone would expect. We’re tapping into every bit of Gearbox Software’s experience with the biggest science fiction video game franchises, then taking everything way past the next level,” said Randy Pitchford, President of Gearbox Software. “The team at 2K Games shares our passion for pushing boundaries in gameplay and storytelling and are absolutely perfect partners for Borderlands.”

Borderlands will be available holiday 2008 for PLAYSTATION 3 system, Xbox 360 and Games for Windows®.

From the press release:

REDMOND, Wash. — Microsoft Corp. today kicked off the greatest holiday lineup in video game history by announcing it will reduce the estimated retail price (ERP) of Xbox 360™ by $50 (U.S.) beginning Aug. 8. Soon to follow, Electronic Arts Inc. (EA) will release its blockbuster video game title “Madden NFL 08” on Aug. 14. “Madden NFL Football,” one of the most important mass-appeal franchises in video games, was the top-selling game of 2006 and is the top-selling franchise of the past 10 years. Only Xbox 360 offers a console for all interests and budgets.

“The fact that we have been able to keep our launch price longer than any other console while retaining our leadership position demonstrates that consumers believe in the value of Xbox 360,” said Mitch Koch, corporate vice president, Global Retail Sales and Marketing Group, Entertainment and Devices Division at Microsoft. “On the eve of the best holiday games lineup ever and the launch of ‘Madden NFL 08,’ there has never been a better time to jump into Xbox 360.”

Xbox 360 will enhance the value of its entire family of consoles beginning on Aug. 8. At a new ERP of $349.99 (U.S.), Xbox 360 offers an unsurpassed experience right out of the box with a 20GB hard drive, wireless controller, Xbox 360 headset, and more. For those looking for the ultimate value and the freedom to customize their console as they see fit, Xbox 360 Core System now has an ERP of $279.99 (U.S.). Xbox 360 Core System provides everything needed to start gaming while giving consumers the ability to add new features and accessories they want. Dressed in black and equipped with a 120GB hard drive, Xbox 360 Elite will be priced at an ERP of $449.99 (U.S.) for those who want the premium games and entertainment experience. In anticipation of this year’s largest blockbuster game launch, the Xbox 360 Halo® 3 Special Edition Console will hit store shelves in September with an ERP of $399.99 (U.S.). Featuring an authentic Spartan green-and-gold finish, this console will include a matching Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, Xbox 360 20GB hard drive, Xbox 360 Headset, an Xbox 360 Play and Charge Kit, and more.

In addition to being a great value, Xbox 360 is the only console on which consumers will be able to play all of this year’s biggest titles: “Guitar Hero III™: Legends of Rock” (RedOctane/Activision), “Halo 3” (Bungie Studios), “Madden NFL 08” (EA) and “Rock Band” (MTV Games). Xbox 360 is also home to the most exclusive games, such as “BioShock” (2K Games), “Lost Odyssey™” (Mistwalker and Feel Plus), “Blue Dragon” (Mistwalker and Artoon Co. Ltd.), “Scene It? Lights, Camera, Action,” (Screenlife), “Project Gotham Racing® 4” (Bizarre Creations Ltd.), “Mass Effect” (BioWare Corp.), “Naruto: Rise of a Ninja” (Ubisoft), and “Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation” (NAMCO BANDAI Games). With a record-setting attach rate of 6.1 games per console sold (NPD, Life-to-date, June 2007), a new price and the greatest holiday games lineup ever, Xbox 360 has proved itself as the home of the best games and entertainment at the best value.

From the press release:

SUNNYVALE, CA - Activision, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) announced today 11 new songs for Guitar Hero™ III: Legends of Rock, the next installment in the #1 best-selling music and rhythm based game franchise, including master tracks from rockers AFI, Iron Maiden, Queens of the Stone Age, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Slayer and the Strokes.

The 11 additional tracks include:

· Miss Murder (by AFI)
· Through Fire and Flames (by Dragonforce)
· Number of the Beast (by Iron Maiden)
· 3’s and 7’s (by Queens of the Stone Age)
· Suck My Kiss (by Red Hot Chili Peppers)
· Raining Blood (by Slayer)
· Reptillia (by The Strokes)
· Paranoid (as made famous by Black Sabbath)
· Cities on Flame (as made famous by Blue Oyster Cult)
· Mississippi Queen (as made famous by Mountain)
· La Grange (as made famous by ZZ Top)

“Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock features the most comprehensive song list ever assembled for a game,” said Tim Riley, Activision’s worldwide executive of music. “Artists and music execs from the major and independent record labels and publishers respect the brand and have given us unrivaled access to their music vaults allowing us to give gamers what they want - to grab their Gibson guitars and shred to their favorite music.”

In fact, real rock stars like Jade Puget, guitarist for AFI, a band featured in the game is anticipating the upcoming release of the Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and wants fans to know that “if you’re going to start playing Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock, make sure you have, say, the next 2 years free, because that’s all you’re going to want to do.”

In addition to the newly announced tracks, Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock’s previously announced tracks include:

· Slash’s Original Boss Battle Recording
· Welcome to The Jungle (by Guns N’ Roses)
· Paint It Black (by The Rolling Stones)
· Cherub Rock (by Smashing Pumpkins)
· Sabotage (by Beastie Boys)
· The Metal (by Tenacious D)
· My Name is Jonas (by Weezer)
· Knights of Cydonia (by Muse)
· Even Flow (by Pearl Jam)
· Lay Down (by Priestess)
· Cult of Personality (by Living Colour)
· Rock and Roll All Nite (as made famous by Kiss)
· School’s Out (as made famous by Alice Cooper)
· Rock You Like a Hurricane (as made famous by Scorpions)
· Slow Ride (as made famous by Foghat)
· Barracuda (as made famous by Heart)

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock will include explosive new content and features including a multiplayer action-inspired battle mode, grueling boss battles, a host of exclusive unlockable content and visually stunning rock venues. Expanded online multiplayer game modes will also allow axe-shredders worldwide to compete head-to-head for true legendary rock status. While continuing to retain all the key features from their prior legendary performances, fresh downloadable content will be offered on multiple platforms, and players can now shred to a killer set list from many of the most popular rock songs ever recorded.

For the first time ever, Guitar Hero fans will also be able to thrash and burn with new wireless guitar controllers available for each platform, including exclusive Gibson Guitar’s Les Paul model for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo, and PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system. PlayStation®2 gamers will also get to shred on a new exclusive shape, Gibson’s Kramer guitar, popularized by hard rockers and known for its body design, pickups, electronics and construction for furious finger fretting.

From the press release:

This year’s Games Convention, from 22nd – 26th August in Leipzig, will be the world’s biggest game event in 2007. More than 180,000 visitors are expected and journalists from all over the world will see the next generation of games.

This is the right place and the right time to present world exclusively „THEY“. The next generation mystery first person shooter for PC and next generation consoles will be unveiled at Leipzig Games Convention!

„THEY“ are huge – „THEY“ are different – „THEY“ are hostile!

Be one of the selected media to see a thirty minutes behind closed doors presentation – at the Business Center, Hall 1, IMC booth K36. By appointment only the brains behind „THEY“ will present the first playable scenes of this FPS, so mysterious, so stunning and so amazing – that „THEY“ might become one of the most anticipated world premiere titles from this year’s Games Convention!

„THEY“ features a technically future minded 3D engine with next generation effects, brand new gameplay elements and a revolutionary weapon system to survive the challenges ahead! But always remember: Nothing is as it seems!

For your personal 30 minute appointment please get in touch with our Head of Communication - Ingo Horn - preferably by phone or by email.

Facts and features:

Title: THEY
Platforms: PC & next generation console
Release date: 2008/2009
Genre: First person mystery shooter
Scenario: Near Future

- next generation 3D engine
- unique weapon system that makes you „love“ your weapons
- mysterious science fiction background story
- diversified enemies - thrilling and intelligent
- heroes to identify with
- heavy usage of physics
- destructible environment relevant for gameplay
- haunting single player mode
- versatile multiplayer modes

From the press release:

New York, NY - Rockstar Games is proud to announce that Bully: Scholarship Edition is coming to the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and the Wii™ home video game system from Nintendo this Winter.

Both the Wii and Xbox 360 versions will retain the wit and deep gameplay of the previously released PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system title and will boast additional new content. Bully: Scholarship Edition takes place in the fictional New England boarding school of Bullworth Academy, and tells the story of 15-year-old Jimmy Hopkins as he experiences the highs and lows of adjusting to a new school. Capturing the hilarity and awkwardness of adolescence perfectly, Bully: Scholarship Edition pulls the player into its cinematic and engrossing world. Universally acclaimed upon first release, Bully: Scholarship Edition is a genre-crossing action game with a warmth and pathos that is unrivaled.

Bully received a perfect “10/10″ from Electronic Gaming Monthly and 1up.com and was heralded as “a great, well-crafted action game that has one of the best senses of humor around” by IGN.com. USA Today called it “a fantastic debut title by Rockstar Vancouver.” The San Francisco Chronicle wrote “Bully has no shortage of creative energy, offering an immersive boarding school experience that is imaginative, funny and filled with surprises.”

Come and explore the zealous joy, mirth, and torment of youth with Jimmy Hopkins and Bully: Scholarship Edition when enrollment commences this Winter.

From the press release:

GORMLEY, Ontario, Canada — After first appearing on Blu-ray earlier this year, HD DVD owners can now also enjoy the classic arcade game Dragon’s Lair in full high definition. Making his HD DVD debut this August, Dirk the Daring swings in to action on the Xbox 360* with HD DVD add-on drive and standalone HD DVD movie players.

Dragon’s Lair was first introduced in the arcades in 1983 and its laser disc video quality and Don Bluth animation made it an instant smash hit. Now, Digital Leisure and authoring studio Infinite HD Inc. have created a true high definition gaming experience for this classic arcade game.

“I’m amazed at the high definition video.” says Don Bluth, one of the original creators of Dragon’s Lair. “Finally, the game looks as good as it did on film. And, the 5.1 audio sounds even better than original. Now whether you have Blu-ray or HD DVD you can enjoy this terrific, high definition version of Dragon’s Lair.”

All special features on the disc are in full 1080p HD including interviews with creators Don Bluth, Gary Goldman and Rick Dyer, and even a full length visual commentary of the game.

Digital Leisure plans to follow up Dragon’s Lair HD DVD with the release of Space Ace and Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp in the HD DVD format.

Dragon’s Lair HD DVD will be available this August 15th at many fine game and movie retailers.

From the press release:

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. and KOEI Corporation announced today that they have released a free single player demo of Dynasty Warriors®:GUNDAM® on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. Also available on the PLAYSTATION®Network for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system, the fast-paced action demo will offer a taste of the satisfying cinematic experience for which the rich Dynasty Warriors and Gundam universes are known. Fight for the fate of the galaxy and become the ultimate hero of the cosmoswhen the full retail version is available for both the Xbox 360 and PLAYSTATION 3 systems on August 28.

In the Dynasty Warriors:GUNDAM demo, Heero Yuy must try to stop what seems to be a mysterious planet that is veering towards Earth. With the aid of Master Asia and fellow pilot Jerid Mesa, conquering the Mausoleum battlefield is just the beginning of what lies ahead.

“We wanted to ensure that every Xbox 360 owner has the opportunity to enjoy the perfect melding of the Dynasty Warriors signature gameplay and GUNDAM’s Mobile Suits before its anticipated debut,” said Makoto Iwai, Executive Vice President and COO, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc. “The online demo of Dynasty Warriors:GUNDAM offers a glimpse of the unrivaled experience that made it a chart topping success in Japan.”

Powered by KOEI’s Omega Force development team, Dynasty Warriors:GUNDAM has players assuming the role of legendary heroes or villains while enabling them to get into the cockpits of their favorite Mobile Suits, the ultimate weapons of war. Gamers will fight across a host of futuristic battlefields—both terrestrial and stellar–at lightning fast speed and all rendered in high definition graphics. Determination and skill will be put to the test as they lead an army against hundreds of enemies andimpossible odds. Customize Mobile Suits from more than six different epic GUNDAM animated TV series and strategically fortify their power, skills, and abilities while encountering storylines straight from GUNDAM lore. Additionally, dynamic gameplay modes including Official, Original and Versus Mode will ensure unlimited replay value.

From the press release:

STORY:
As a galley slave you stand on the burning beaches of Tortage. With no memory of your past, a broken ore and tattered clothes you enter a fantastic journey where you will define your destiny. In a world filled with cruel gods, mythical creatures, lost civilizations and a struggling human race, Conan the mighty barbarian has finally seized the throne as king of Aquilonia; but his rule is on the brink of chaos as his nemesis Thoth-Amon attempts to resurrect the ancient civilization of Acheron.

DESCRIPTION:
Carve your destiny and fight along King Conan, in the first mature MMORPG. Advanced technologies, amazing graphics and stunning 7.1 surround sounds will immerse you in Robert E. Howard’s dark universe where magic and brutal combat lurk around every corner. Be the first to enter the savage world of Conan.

As a Massively Multiplayer Online PC gamer you will live in Conan’s Universe. Be the first to conquer the fantastic regions of Cimmeria, Aquilonia or Stygia. Be the first to own the Hyborian Ages and prove to the whole Online world you are worthy of Conan…your quest will begin on October 30th.

KEY FEATURES:

The First Mature Rated MMORPG – In the true and barbaric vision of Robert E. Howard, ‘Age of Conan’ promises to bring mature online players something brutal, new and refreshing. Age of Conan is savage, bloody, lethal, chilling, fantastic and mirthful; giving online gamers the chance to crush skulls, conquer the weak and unleash their fury.

Real Combat System - Fight mounted or on the ground. The new multi-point melee system delivers, for the first time ever, real-time combat. Team up in battle formations and command both Non-Playable-Characters and other players in epic multiplayer battles as well as joining massive sieges.

True Conan Experience – The first official Conan online Role Playing Game sends you on a brutal journey in the footsteps of the worlds’ greatest fantasy hero. Meet Conan’s friend and foes, battle demons and monsters known from 70 year of Conan history, and step up to the ultimate challenge: befriend the mighty King Conan himself.

Conan’s World - Enter a gigantic and unique world containing more than 30 distinct regions spread across the three mighty nations of Aquilonia, Cimmeria and Stygia. Explore deep jungles, burning deserts, inhospitable mountains, vast valleys, dark dungeons or gleaming cities, and venture in incredible journeys of exploration.

Advanced Technologies - Optimized for DirectX 10, Multi-core CPU and featuring Advanced Artificial Intelligence; Age of Conan takes advantage of the Dream World™ MMO Technology, delivering extremely detailed environments and real life physics…you won’t believe you’re playing a game.

Player vs. Player and Player vs. Environment - Meet the ultimate resistance in human opponents, and crush the skulls of other players in arena fights, drunken brawls and sieges. Charge into the world of Conan, and fight monsters and demons alone or in groups.

Guild and Solo Gameplay - Form guilds and lay siege to hostile castles. Let the catapults sing their merry song of death as the enemy is brutally crushed to a pulp. Team up with other players in clans or experience an amazing journey deep into the lands of Hyboria, alone.

Diverse Gameplay – Age of Conan delivers what every fan of MMOs loves: player-made cities, skilled crafts, classes and numerous social opportunities which are all but a few ingredients in this savage mature Role Playing Game.

Character Customization – Let your imagination run wild with thousands of options. Create your character and shape it up to fit the role and style you want to play.

Amazing Graphics - Featuring Real Time Dynamic Soft Shadows, Dynamic Weather System, advanced Shaders and an amazing art direction; the graphics will immerse you into a world as never seen before.

7.1 Surround Sound – Feel the powerful sound effects and epic soundtrack in 7.1 surround sound. Listen to gripping voices and dynamic sounds pulling you into the savage world of Conan.

From the press release:

Assassin’s Creed is the next-gen game developed by Ubisoft Montreal that will redefine the action genre. While other games claim to be next-gen with impressive graphics and physics, Assassin’s Creed merges technology, game design, theme, and emotions into a world where you instigate chaos and become a vulnerable, yet powerful, agent of change.

The setting is 1191 AD. The Third Crusade is tearing the Holy Land apart. You, Altair, intend to stop the hostilities by suppressing both sides of the conflict.

You are an Assassin, a warrior shrouded in secrecy and feared for your ruthlessness. Your actions can throw your immediate environment into chaos, and your existence will shape events during this pivotal moment in history.

Key Features

• Be an Assassin
Master the skills, tactics, and weapons of history’s deadliest and most secretive clan of warriors. Plan your attacks, strike without mercy, and fight your way to escape.

• Realistic and responsive environments
Experience a living, breathing world in which all your actions have consequences. Crowds react to your moves and will either help or hinder you on your quests.

• Action with a new dimension – total freedom
Eliminate your targets wherever, whenever, and however. Stalk your prey through richly detailed, historically accurate, open-ended environments. Scale buildings, mount horses, blend in with crowds. Do whatever it takes to achieve your objectives.

• Relive the epic times of the Crusades
Assassin’s Creed immerses you in the realistic and historical Holy Land of the 12th century, featuring life-like graphics, ambience, and the subtle, yet detailed nuances of a living world.

• Intense action rooted in reality
Experience heavy action blended with fluid and precise animations. Use a wide range of medieval weapons, and face your enemies in realistic swordfight duels.

• Next-gen gameplay
The proprietary engine developed from the ground up for the next-gen console allows organic game design featuring open gameplay, intuitive control scheme, realistic interaction with environment, and a fluid, yet sharp, combat mechanic.

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