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SOE Sees Free Realms Soar Past 1 Million Registrants
XSEED Announces Ragnarok for DS Online
Fidelity Ships VPC Netbooks
O'Reilly Gets You Up to Speed with Flash
Aggronautix to Release Action Figures
O'Reilly Releases Definitive Guide to XMPP
Radius Adds Color to Your Listening Experience
Samson Announces Portable PA System
Majesco Bring Night at Smithsonian to Life
Move Over, There's a New Game Developer in Town
Unigo College Guide Launches Website
New XSeries Isn't Your Daddy's Walkman
Genius Puts HD in the Palm of Your Hand
Bill Brown to Write Score for Wolfenstein
Konami Reveals Magician's Secrets in DS Game
New Road Mice Hit Information Highway
Walk the Line Between Good and Evil with City of Heroes Expansion Pack
Jillian Michaels Returns with Two New Fitness Games
O'Reilly Provides All the Answers in iPhoto '09 Missing Manual
Logitech Unveils Black Guitar Controller for Guitar Hero
LaCie Unveils Huge Capacity for Network Storage Free Realms™ Soars Past One Million REGISTRANTS In 17 days, an unprecedented achievement for a new IP Sony Online Entertainment Celebrates Accomplishment with Lifetime Subscription for Game’s Millionth Registrant and Limited Edition In-Game Item for All Other Players SAN DIEGO, CALIF. – May 15, 2009 – Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) today announced that more than one million unique users have registered for Free Realms™, the free, family-friendly online video game that launched on April 28. To mark this milestone, SOE is rewarding all current Free Realms players with limited edition, in-game T-shirt featuring special graphics. The one-millionth player will also receive a lifetime membership to the game, a one-of-a-kind in-game astronaut suit, and 10,000 Station Cash™. “The excitement surrounding Free Realms, and the positive response the game has already received, is overwhelming,” said John Smedley, president of Sony Online Entertainment. “To achieve this milestone so rapidly speaks to the quality and the fun gameplay experience Free Realms offers to players of all ages.” Along with the limited edition Free Realms T-shirt for their character to wear, 999,999 players will receive a matching pet T-shirt for their four-legged friends, and 200 Station Cash to use toward the purchase of in-game items. In Free Realms, players can customize their characters, explore, quest, battle monsters, and play a wide variety of minigames in a safe, online environment, packed with stunning visuals, distinctive environments, and social networking capabilities. Players are free to do or be anything: Fight like a ninja, cook a tasty meal, raise a pet, battle goblins, set out on epic quests or connect with friends through a safe, social networking site. Also available is the Free Realms Trading Card Game: a full-featured trading card game, playable both digitally within the Free Realms online game and offline via physical card decks available wherever you buy trading cards. The Free Realms game starter cards and Station Cash cards, which can be used to purchase a membership, in-game items and more, are available at such stores as Target, Best Buy and 7-11. Free Realms is rated E10+ for Everyone 10 and up with content descriptors of Crude Humor and Fantasy Violence. To play Free Realms, visit: http://www.FreeRealms.com. Back to Top XSEED Games Announces Ragnarok Online DS for Nintendo DS International MMO phenomenon to be available on a handheld Torrance, Calif., (May 15, 2009) –XSEED Games today announced that Ragnarok Online DS for the Nintendo DS is in development and scheduled for release in North America in winter 2009. Ragnarok Online DS brings the same addictive gameplay of customization and exploration that has more than 3.14 million North American registered users as of May 11, 2009, for the PC version to the Nintendo DS platform. Throughout the world, the people of the major powers throughout the land live in peace and prosperity, unaware that a great evil lurks on the horizon. There is a clandestine group, under the guise of scholarly research, plotting to resurrect a goddess whose time has long since passed. To achieve this goal, they need two things; a vessel of flesh and blood to house the spirit of the goddess and the lives of every living being offered up as a sacrifice. It is against the backdrop of this coming chaos that Ares, an orphan from a small, forgotten village, sets out to seek his fortune as an adventurer. At the start of his journey, he encounters a beautiful young girl with mysterious powers named Sierra, who has not only lost her memories about herself, but also of the world around her. Together, they embark on an adventure that will ultimately decide the fate of the entire world. ”We could not be more pleased to be involved in bringing such a well-known and beloved series on the PC to a handheld platform,” said Jun Iwasaki, President of XSEED Games. “Ragnarok Online DS stays true to the original while adding elements to optimize the experience on the Nintendo DS.” In Ragnarok Online DS, players upgrade their character’s armor and weapons by either taking them to a blacksmith to be refined, or by affixing effect cards dropped by defeated monsters. In addition to having their characters’ base levels increase, each character earns both Status and Skill Points each time they gain a level. These points can then be used by the player to customize their characters to best suit their playing style, choosing from a number of different job classes such as Swordsman, Thief, and Merchant. Staying true to the community and teamwork that the original is based on, Ragnarok Online DS allows players to team up with two other friends wirelessly to take on the Tower of Mirages, which has more than 50 floors, randomly generated maps and completion conditions, and the chance to obtain rare items. Ragnarok Online DS offers current players of Ragnarok Online a chance to enjoy the same world and addictive gameplay on a portable platform, while people new to the series will enjoy the original epic storyline within an experience optimized for a handheld. XSEED Games has partnered with GungHo to secure the North American rights to publish and distribute Ragnarok Online DS. This title is being developed by GungHo and will be available during winter 2009 exclusively for the DS. Back to Top FIDELITY SHIPS VPC - VERY PERSONAL COMPUTER™ Very Portable, Very Functional, Very Affordable TORONTO, CANADA (May 11, 2009) – Fidelity Electronics this week began shipments of the Fidelity VPC - Very Personal Computer: a fully preloaded, 1.5 lb., Wifi portable computer with a breakthrough suggested retail of $199 US VPC first shipments will be to school boards, college bookstores and select retailers across US and Canada such as Centre Hi-Fi, Home Hardware, Northern Stores, Japan Camera, Fotosource, Henry’s Photo, Saneal Camera, and independent photo, electronic and computer stores.With a bilingual (English/French) custom Linux operating system, VPC is out of the box ready with all programs preloaded including a web browser, word processor, spreadsheet, games, media player, image slideshow, ebook reader, edictionary, calculator and more. “Surf, mail, write, create and play on this affordable, lightweight very personal computer,” says Richard Kizner, Director of Marketing for Fidelity Electronics. “Nothing to load, nothing extra to buy and if needed, no charge set up assistance and customer service” he adds. Free online updates and free software in different languages will be available at www.fidelityvpc.com. Toll free bilingual customer service is free. Fidelity Electronics Inc. is a leading provider of innovative personal electronics and consumer products including the Fidelity VPC, award winning Fidelity digital picture frames, digital memory and imaging accessories. Fidelity operates from Vaughan, Ontario; Buffalo, New York; Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China. For more information, visit Fidelity's website at www.fidelityelectronics.com. Back to Top Learning Flash CS4 Professional--New from O'ReillyGetting Up to Speed with Flash
Sebastopol, CA—If you're a Flash designer or developer picking up Flash CS4 Professional for the first time, or a user upgrading from a prior version, you'll want O'Reilly's newest publication, Learning Flash CS4 Professional: Getting Up to Speed with Flash ($44.99), by your side. Learning Flash CS4 Professional: Getting Up to Speed with Flash offers beginners and intermediate Flash developers a unique introduction to the latest version of Adobe's powerful multimedia application. Authored by Flash and ActionScript expert Rich Shupe, this easy-to-read book comes loaded with full-color examples and hands-on tasks to help you master Flash CS4's new motion editor, integrated 3D system, and character control using the new inverse kinematics bones animation system.No prior experience with Flash is necessary to enjoy this book, as you learn the Flash interface from the ground up, but there are plenty of new features of which veteran Flash designers and developers can take advantage. "Like many creative technologies, the Flash platform (not just the software, but also the community) has exploded over the last several years, fueled by faster, less expensive computers, the arrival of economical broadband access, and the growing role the Internet plays in our personal and professional lives," writes Shupe in the book's introduction. "If you're reading this book--whether you're a developer or designer (or perhaps a member of the recently dubbed devigner camp: a programming creative that defies easy description)--it's because Flash does, or will, play a part in your productivity. No matter what your experience level, you'll find that Flash is a big application with a lot to offer." Learning Flash CS4 Professional will help you: -
- Understand Flash fundamentals with clear, concise information you can use right away
- Learn key concepts and techniques in every chapter, with annotated screenshots and illustrations
- Develop an ongoing project that utilizes material from every chapter
- Learn how to package your work for distribution on the Web and through AIR desktop applications
- Download sample files and discuss additional Flash features on the companion blog
As part of the Adobe Developer Library, and companion volume to the bestselling Learning ActionScript 3.0 (O'Reilly, 39.99) by Rich Shupe and Zevan Rosser, this is the most authoritative guide to Flash CS4 available. Get moving with Flash today! Rich Shupe is co-author of Learning ActionScript 3.0 (O'Reilly), and teaches ActionScript programming at New York's School of Visual Arts' MFA Computer Art Department.Additional Resources:
For more information about the book, including table of contents, index, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/9780596159764 Learning Flash CS4 Professional
Rich Shupe
ISBN: 9780596159764, 390 pages,
Book Price: $44.99 USD, £34.50 GBP
Ebook Price: $35.99 USD
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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About O'Reilly
O'Reilly Media spreads the knowledge of innovators through its books, online services, magazines, and conferences. Since 1978, O'Reilly Media has been a chronicler and catalyst of cutting-edge development, homing in on the technology trends that really matter and spurring their adoption by amplifying "faint signals" from the alpha geeks who are creating the future. An active participant in the technology community, the company has a long history of advocacy, meme-making, and evangelism.# # #O'Reilly is a registered trademark of O'Reilly Media, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.  
Back to Top GG Allin and Tesco Vee Limited-Edition Figures
To Be Released By Aggronautix |
Aggronautix is set to release limited-edition figures of GG Allin "1991" (2000 numbered) and Tesco Vee of the Meatmen (1000 numbered). Each "Throbblehead" figure stands at 7 inches tall, is made of a lightweight polyresin, and will be displayed in a tri-windowed box.
Both figures will be distributed by MVD Entertainment Group - a company specializing in music-related distribution since 1986 - and DKE Toys - a wholesale distributor of urban / vinyl / designer art / objects / toys / figurines.
"We normally don't carry bobbleheads but I was floored that the folks at Aggronautix would attempt this project," said Dov Kelemer CEO of DKE Toys. "I figured that if I broke down and made an exception to actually put this (anti-)bobblehead in my collection that others would feel the same. GG Allin... WTF!?!?!?!"
The idea first surfaced two years ago when Aggronautix pitched the GG figure idea to Merle Allin, GG's brother.
"I had been thinking about doing a GG figure for a while, so when the guys came to me with the idea, I was into it," said Allin. "The proofing process took a long time, but we got it right. The doll looks really good and I'm happy with it."
Aggronautix soon discovered another likely personality to polyresinate, Tesco Vee. He states, "As a toy collector of two decades, and classic bobble head collector, imagine just how geeked I became, when informed that yours truly would enter the pantheon of 'Throbblehead' punk rock losers, along with poopy soulmate GG Allin!"
The figures are now available for purchase on http://www.aggronautix.com and http://www.seeofsound.com will soon be available at many independent retailers, comic shops, tattoo parlors, etc.
Aggronautix is currently working on a Dwarves "Two-Headed Throbble" to be released this summer. |
Back to Top XMPP: The Definitive Guide--New from O'ReillyBuilding Real-Time Applications with Jabber Technologies Sebastopol, CA—In 1880, it took one or two years to get a message from London to Calcutta and receive a reply. You'd have to find a ship's captain who was headed round the Cape of Good Hope, persuade him to take it, and hope for good weather. Then the person on the receiving end would have to do the same to get a letter back to you. Today, you can send a message almost as quickly as it comes to mind, via IM, microblogging, group chat, email, or the communication tool of your choice. "What these technologies have in common is that interactions happen in close to real time. To make this possible, we need technologies for real-time communication," observe Peter Saint-Andre, Kevin Smith, and Remko Troncon, authors of XMPP: The Definitive Guide. "Ideally such technologies would be open standards providing the real-time equivalent of HTTP, HTML, and the other building blocks of today's Internet, because over the long term, open standards provide stronger security, greater extensibility, and the possibility for more innovation at the edges than do closed technologies." The Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP) is just such an open technology for real-time interaction. This open technology for real-time communication is used in many diverse applications such as instant messaging, Voice over IP, real-time collaboration, social networking, microblogging, lightweight middleware, cloud computing, and more. XMPP: The Definitive Guide walks you through the thought processes and design decisions involved in building a complete XMPP-enabled application, and adding real-time interfaces to existing applications. You'll not only learn simple yet powerful XMPP tools, but you'll also discover, through real-world developer stories, how common XMPP "building blocks" can help solve particular classes of problems. With this book, you will: - Learn the basics of XMPP technologies, including architectural issues, addressing, and communication primitives
- Understand the terminology of XMPP and learn about the wealth of XMPP servers, clients, and code libraries
- Become familiar with the XMPP concepts and services you need to solve common problems
- Construct a complete business application or real-time service with XMPP
Every day, more software developers and service providers are using XMPP for real-time applications, and with the help of XMPP: The Definitive Guide, you can, too. Peter Saint-Andre has been contributing to the Jabber/XMPP developer community since late 1999 and is currently Executive Director of the XMPP Standards Foundation.Kevin Smith is currently Chair of the XMPP Council, having served as a Council member since 2006, and is also the co-author of several XMPP extensions. Remko Tronçon is the lead developer of the Psi Jabber/XMPP client, and a contributor to various other XMPP-related applications. He has been a member of the XMPP Standards foundation since 2004, co-authoring and contributing to several XMPP extensions.Additional Resources:
For more information about the book, including table of contents, index, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/9780596521264 XMPP: The Definitive Guide
Peter Saint-Andre, Kevin Smith, Remko Tronçon
ISBN: 9780596521264, 308 pages,
Book Price: $39.99 USD, £30.99 GBP
Ebook Price: $31.99 USD
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
1-800-998-9938
1-707-827-7000
About O'Reilly
O'Reilly Media spreads the knowledge of innovators through its books, online services, magazines, and conferences. Since 1978, O'Reilly Media has been a chronicler and catalyst of cutting-edge development, homing in on the technology trends that really matter and spurring their adoption by amplifying "faint signals" from the alpha geeks who are creating the future. An active participant in the technology community, the company has a long history of advocacy, meme-making, and evangelism.# # #O'Reilly is a registered trademark of O'Reilly Media, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Back to Top |  Radius Products Unveils TruTune
Fine Color Series
Super Charge Your Music with a Fusion of Fashion and Function
Available Now For $19.99 From Radiusearphones.com
Nashville, TN– (May 13, 2009) - Radius Products, a leader in top quality earphones and portable music accessories at affordable prices, fuses fashion with function for their new improved version of the TruTune Earphones. The colorful new version available in Apple’s iPod Nano 4G rainbow of nine colors, features Y-style cable wiring for U.S. customers and no extensions adding additional comfort with a lightweight feel. Japanese designed Radius earphones deliver the highest level of sound quality, superior construction, unrivaled comfort and unparalleled style. The TruTune earphones are available for $19.99 and boast an array of great features including:
• Ultra-light Aluminum Earbud Design –The Radius TruTune earphones are tailor made and precision crafted from ultra-light aluminum and feature a gold plated stereo mini-plug.
• Multiple Ear Size Design – TruTune earphones offer unrivaled comfort and unparalleled style and design to fit all size ears comfortably with S, M, L silicone caps.
• 9 Different colors to match Apple’s Nano 4G colors – whatever your personality there is color that helps you express yourself. |
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 “Blurring the lines between sound gear and fashion accessory, TruTune earphones are stylish, unpretentious and universally affordable” says Ben Sedaghat, CEO of Radius Products. “The TrueTunes available in nine colors ensure a spot-on match for your iPod personality and ensure that you have music wherever you go that sounds, looks and feels just right.”
The TrueTune earphones are available now online for $19.99. For more information on product specifications and availability, please visit www.radiusearphones.com
About Radius Products:
Launched in the United States in April 2008 with R&D offices in Japan Radius Earphones has become a leader in top quality earphones and portable music accessories at affordable prices. Currently a top seller in Japan, Radius is a perfect fusion of fashion and function. Radius strives to produce products that are the epitome of quality and affordable luxury. Today, Radius Earphones are the first choice amongst celebrities and music lovers around the world and have been highly acclaimed as the best value earphone in the market by the toughest tech media reviewers including CNET, iLounge and PC Magazine.
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Samson Technologies Announces the XP308i Portable PA System |
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 XP308i offers power, portability, flexibility and an iPod docking station for traveling performers or presenters and will ship June 2009 Hauppauge, NY – May 13th, 2009 – Samson Technologies, an industry leading audio technology manufacturer, is pleased to announce the Expedition XP308i. The XP308i packs powerful, full-range sound in an ingeniously designed completely portable package. An ideal single, system PA solution created for a variety of live sound applications, the XP308i will revolutionize the ease of transporting professional quality audio solutions.
“The XP308i is all about portability and convenience,” says Mark Wilder, Director of Marketing for Samson Technologies. “That’s why it’s perfect for meetings, classrooms, seminars, parties and public performances. Thanks to the iPod dock, you can even incorporate background tracks or repeat a commercial message at a fair or tradeshow. The possibilities for the XP308i are nearly endless,” added Wilder. |
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 The XP308i comes complete with dual 2-way speakers, on-board mixer and 300 watt power amplifier. Most importantly, portability is second to none thanks to a clever, lightweight design that allows you to pack all the pieces together into a single, easy to transport case. In addition to being lightweight and efficient, the internal 2 x 150 watt Class D amplifier provides incredibly clean and powerful stereo sound.
The system’s speakers are 2-way vented enclosures with heavy-duty 8-inch woofers for deep bass. These are complemented by a 1-inch titanium tweeter set in a custom horn with a 60° x 90° coverage pattern. The result is consummate dispersion and loud, lucid audio.
With powerful, full-range sound in a complete, portable package, the XP308i is an ideal single system PA solution for a variety of live sound applications.Complete features are below:
• Built-in 300 watt (2 x 150) powered mixer
• Total weight of less than 40 pounds
• Internal 2 x 150 watt lightweight Class D amplifier
• 8-inch woofers in 2-way vented enclosures
• 1-inch titanium tweeter in custom 60° x 90° horn for complete room coverage
• 8-channel mixer with built-in iPod dock, 4 mic/line inputs, two stereo inputs & phantom power
• Integrated 1-3/8 speaker stand mounts
• Bass and treble control on mixer’s channel inputs
• Monitor output on two 1/8-inch jacks allows connection to external monitors
• Internal effects processor
• Music/Speech switch for overall system equalization
• Six-segment level meter with limit indicator
• RCA record outputs to connect to external recorder
• Tilt back enclosures for use as floor monitors
• Cables included
• MSRP $679.99, MAP $499.99
To request additional information and/or product images, please contact PR Representative Greg Mondshein at (305) 576-1171 x22 or at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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For more information about Samson Technologies, please visit www.samsontech.com.
About Samson Technologies Corporation
Samson Technologies Corporation designs, manufactures and distributes high-performance audio, wireless and music accessory products in the United States and 106 countries abroad. Samson is well-known as a leading audio technology company with a long history of successful products in the professional audio segments as well as the mainstream consumer markets. Additionally, Samson is also the exclusive worldwide distributor of Hartke products and the exclusive U.S. distributor of Zoom recording and signal processing electronics. Founded in 1982, Samson Technologies is a privately held company based in Hauppauge, NY. For more information, please visit www.samsontech.com.
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Back to Top 'NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: BATTLE OF THE SMITHSONIAN' GAME FOR Xbox 360®, Wii™, NINTENDO DS™ AND WINDOWS PC NOW AVAILABLE AT RETAIL Majesco Entertainment Brings The Twentieth Century Fox Feature Film To Life Today!
EDISON, N.J., May 13, 2009 - Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, and Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising (Fox L&M), today announced that Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian for Wii™, Nintendo DS™, Windows PC and the Xbox 360®video game and entertainment system from Microsoft is now available at retail outlets nationwide. Developed by Amaze Entertainment, Pipeworks and Fizz Factor, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian follows the storyline of Twentieth Century Fox's highly anticipated theatrical release of the same name. Debuting in theaters May 22nd and featuring the voice and likeness of the film's star, Ben Stiller, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian brings the movie experience directly into the home with all of the excitement and humor from the feature film. Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian is now available in stores for the suggested retail price of $39.99 on Wii and Xbox 360, $29.99 on Nintendo DS and $19.99 on Windows PC.
In Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, players assume the role of Ben Stiller's character, Larry Daley, former night guard of New York's Museum of Natural History. Larry must rescue Jedediah and his other friends from Akhmenrah's brother who captured them while stealing a powerful Magic Tablet that can raise the Army of Horus to take over the world. Daley is well aware of the havoc that history's most notorious figures can wreak when the sun goes down and the museum exhibits come alive. He races to DC to help his friends in the Smithsonian. Using Larry's trusty keychain and flashlight, players must solve puzzles and adventure through 14 levels including the Federal Archives, the National Air and Space Museum and the Lincoln Memorial. Gamers can travel in style on the back of a T-Rex skeleton, within the Lunar Lander and in the cockpit of Amelia Earhart's Pitcairn Autogyro. Along the way, players must find pieces of the Magic Tablet and collect other items to unlock mini-games, new areas and bonus content from the Smithsonian including trivia questions, in-game audio tours and factoids.
Features Specific to the DS:
Nintendo DS™ owners can also experience the spirit and humor of the movie in an entertaining side-scrolling adventure. Players use the Touch Screen to manage magic tablet pieces that change Larry's abilities in real-time. Cling to walls, super jump, fly, shrink, charge and stomp your way through the Smithsonian while using Larry's flashlight and keychain to navigate exhibits.
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian is rated E10+ on Xbox 360, Wii and Windows PC and rated E for Everyone on Nintendo DS. The game is in stores now. For additional information on the game and to watch the trailer, please visit the official site at: www.NightattheMuseumGame.com.
About Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian Feature Film
Get ready for a story so epic it could only unfold in the corridors of the world's largest museum- the Smithsonian Institution. Museum guard-turned entrepreneur Larry Daley discovers that his favorite exhibits, and some of his best friends, from New York's Natural History Museum are being shipped off to the archives at the Smithsonian. Larry gets a distress call from the miniature cowboy, Jedediah, reporting that Egyptian ruler Kahmunrah and a trio of heinous henchmen - namely Ivan the Terrible, Napoleon and Al Capone - are plotting to take over the museum, then the world. Speeding to the nation's capitol, Larry is clearly in over his head. But with some impressive new pals, including the irrepressible Amelia Earhart, along with familiar friends Teddy Roosevelt and Octavius, Larry will stop at nothing to restore the Smithsonian before dawn.
About Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising
A recognized industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Licensing and Merchandising licenses and markets properties worldwide on behalf of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Twentieth Television and Fox Broadcasting Company, as well as third party lines. The division is aligned with Twentieth Century Fox Television, one of the top suppliers of primetime entertainment programming to the broadcast networks.
About Majesco Entertainment Company
Majesco Entertainment Company is a provider of video games for the mass market. Building on 20 years of operating history, the company is focused on developing and publishing a wide range of casual and family oriented video games on leading console and portable systems. Product highlights include Cooking Mama™ and Cake Mania®2 for Nintendo DS™, and Cooking Mama World Kitchen and Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009 for Wii™. The company's shares are traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol: COOL. Majesco is headquartered in Edison, NJ and has an international office in Bristol, UK. More information about Majesco can be found online at www.majescoentertainment.com. Back to Top
New indEpendent game COMPANY Loose Cannon STUDIOS set to ignite GAMES industryGames Industry Veterans Build New Studio to Deliver Explosive New IPs and Imaginative Next-Generation Games and Media. SEATTLE, Washington – May 13, 2009 – Loose Cannon Studios announced today it has formally entered the games industry as an independent development and production house. The company sparked under Dev Madan and Matthew Scott, formerly of Sucker Punch Productions, and Ricci Rukavina, who held creative and production positions at Universal Interactive Studios, Vivendi Games and The Walt Disney Company. The founding team at Loose Cannon Studios embodies 40 years of experience in the electronic entertainment industry and will focus on the development of highly original IPs for a variety of consumers. Dev Madan, serving as Creative Director and Co-Founder of Loose Cannon Studios, has influenced the entertainment industry with his unique vision of electronic art for 18 years. Dev worked as a freelance illustrator and comic book artist for Dark Horse Comics, Marvel Comics and DC Comics. His career in the comic world also led Dev to co-create the series Young Heroes in Love. Previous to the comics series, Dev helped launch Humongous Entertainment and after the comic series' completion, Sucker Punch Productions. He would eventually lead efforts on the Sly Cooper franchise, which led to the highly successful PlayStation 2 titles Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus, Sly 2: Band of Thieves and Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves. Technical Director and Co-Founder of Loose Cannon Studios, Matthew Scott has spent over 10 years entrenched in the electronic entertainment industry. He labored in various positions, including time on low-level assembler routines and renderers for the PlayStation and PlayStation 2. Matthew would soon rise to game systems programming and game design, eventually assisting in the start of acclaimed development studios Crave Entertainment and Monolith. Matthew spent time on a spectrum of critically-acclaimed titles, such as No One Lives Forever and the Sly Cooper series, more recently lending his expertise to the upcoming PlayStation 3 title, Infamous. President and Co-Founder Ricci Rukavina launched his entertainment career at Amblin Entertainment – Steven Spielberg’s film production company behind E.T.: the Extra Terrestrial – where he immersed himself in the world of digital filmmaking. Ricci worked on a string of blockbuster film properties spanning Jurassic Park, Alive and Twister. The experience led him through the doors of Universal Interactive Studios and Vivendi Games, where he served as Creative Director, working on the Spyro the Dragon series and led development of several titles including The Thing and Scarface. His experience and success took Ricci to The Walt Disney Company, where he served as Vice President of Creative/Product Development for several years. Loose Cannon Studios is currently developing an original IP for next-generation consoles that will be announced in the coming weeks. The company is also developing another wholly original IP built upon Loose Cannon Studio’s singular vision to create a new breed of inventive entertainment products. Loose Cannon Studios is an independent game development studio and creator of cutting-edge entertainment. Based in Seattle, Washington, Loose Cannon was formed to deliver uncompromisingly imaginative and state-of-the-art experiences across a variety of media. More information about the company and its products can be found online at www.loosecannonstudios.com. Back to Top
UNIGO.COM MOVES OUT OF BETA, REDESIGNS HOMEPAGE
AND NAVIGATION STRUCTURE, HIRES NEW CTOEight months after launch, online college guide now has reviews of more than 2,000 colleges across the country. |
| NEW YORK, NY - (May 13, 2009) - The web's most comprehensive and authentic college guide, Unigo.com, moved today out of beta with a redesigned homepage and navigation structure, as well as new functionality, it was announced by CEO Jordan Goldman.
Launched in September 2008 as an online guide that opens up lines of communication between high school and college students, the 100% free site features tens of thousands of school reviews, photos, videos, and articles. All content on the site is supplied by students at colleges across the country and curated by Unigo's professional editorial team to ensure accuracy.
The site launched with reviews of 300 of America's top colleges and has since expanded to include more than 2,000 schools.
"I'm very pleased with the progress we've made since launch," said Goldman. "Our new homepage and the entirely new navigation structure make it even easier for students and parents to customize their experience on the site and quickly find the information they need. And the addition of 1,700 new schools means that we're well on our way to covering every school in the country."
Last month Unigo exceeded the one million visitors milestone, and has more than nine million pageviews thus far. Unigo also recently brought in a new Chief Technology Officer, Barry Goldberg, who had previously spent five years as head of technical development at The Princeton Review.
Other developments include a Webby nomination in the Social Networking category and the naming of Goldman as "one of the 100 most influential New Yorkers in the Digital Business Community" by Silicon Alley Insider.
The site's list of blue-chip advertisers also continues to grow, with companies like Apple, Dell, The Wall Street Journal and Sallie Mae citing Unigo's highly targeted and rapidly growing userbase as reasons for advertising on the site.
ABOUT UNIGO:
Launched in September 2008, the free website Unigo.com is quickly becoming the go-to resource for prospective college students and parents looking for authentic and up-to-date information about the schools they're considering. The site features tens of thousands of interactive reviews of America's top colleges by the real experts - the students who attend them.
These reviews were described by The New York Times Magazine as "...so evocative they make the one-page U.S. News summaries read like junk mail ...they are vivid in a way no guidebook can match," and The Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg called Unigo "...a college information resource built for the age of YouTube and Facebook." |
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SONY UNVEILS THE X-SERIES WALKMAN®, DELIVERING AN UNRIVALED PORTABLE AUDIO/VIDEO EXPERIENCE SAN DIEGO, May 13, 2009 –Sony today took the wraps off its top-of-the-line Walkman® Video MP3 player – the X-series Walkman®. A premium portable entertainment device, the X-series (NWZ-X1000 models) is Wi-Fi enabled and features an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) touch screen, Sony’s Digital Clear Audio Technologies, as well as embedded content provided by Slacker® Radio and YouTube™. “The new X-series leverages Sony’s engineering heritage and integrates the latest advances in OLED and other innovative technologies,” said Andrew Sivori, director of the audio products business at Sony Electronics. “We focused on enhancing audio and video playback to develop a device that allows consumers a deeper, more interactive way to enjoy content, as well as discover new content, for a truly unique entertainment experience.” Picture Perfect Featuring a 3-inch OLED touch screen, the player delivers outstanding video with exceptional color reproduction, extremely high contrast and a rapid response rate. With a 180-degree viewing angle, the next generation display allows for amazing video playback and photo viewing. Additionally, when watching movies on the device, the image on the screen can be adjusted based on the user’s preference, while navigation has been simplified via a feature called scene scroll. Utilizing the scene scroll feature, users select their preferred time increment and simply swipe across the screen to scroll forward and backward through scenes. Silence is Golden Sony’s X-series Walkman® is the industry’s first* video MP3 player to offer integrated digital noise canceling technology. The new model uses a unique, built-in digital noise canceling (DNC) software engine to block out ambient noise, while providing a high-quality audio experience. The accompanying 13.5mm EX headphones house a small microphone to measure intrusive noise so the DNC filter can create an optimal inverted sound wave that reduces up to 98.0 percent of the noise. Sony’s DNC software engine makes it possible for the digital noise canceling technology to work in all environments, but custom settings can be selected to enhance the experience. Users can select airplane, bus/train or office modes which use different filters in the digital signal processor specifically tuned for these surroundings. As an added benefit, users can turn on the noise canceling feature for peace and quiet even without listening to music. On airplanes, travelers can also connect the X-series player directly to a plane’s audio / video system with the included accessory cable, and enjoy regular in-flight entertainment with the bonus of digital noise cancellation. Content Matters The X-series Walkman® broadens options for enjoying content from multiple sources, including many download stores, the FM tuner, personal collections and embedded services like Slacker® Radio. Using Slacker, music lovers select up to three stations and hundreds of songs will get pushed to the device at no charge. When the stations are refreshed in a Wi-Fi area, the content is buffered and cached on the Walkman player so those tunes can be enjoyed anywhere and everywhere. Slacker also features rich metadata allowing users to access artist info while listening to a song and customize channels with “favorite” and “ban” buttons for the service to suggest content. Support for popular audio and video codecs is enhanced because the X-series Walkman® devices play protected Windows Media Video (WMV) files, and supports other video codecs such as AVC Baseline (H.264) and MPEG-4, allowing you to enjoy movies and video clips from your other media collections as well as paid music services. It also comes with Content Transfer software which simplifies “drag and drop” transfer of non-DRM music, videos, podcasts and playlists from online music services such as iTunes™ to Walkman® players. The battery life is up to 33 hours of music playback and up to 9 hours of video playback. Direct Connect Marking Sony’s first Walkman® product with Wi-Fi integration, the X-series Walkman Video MP3 player is a smart device for consumers who want to stay connected at all times. Utilizing built-in Wi-Fi technology, the X-series Walkman Video MP3 players let you access an Internet web browser, subscribe to and refresh podcasts, and search for and playback content on YouTube™, all without using your PC. In addition, a “Related Links” function found when playing your favorite songs allows for quick searches of complementary content via YouTube™ using metadata associated with the song. Signature Functionality The device utilizes a hybrid interface with both touch panel operation and a hard key system to improve upon the navigation experience. Select buttons like volume, play/pause, rewind/fast forward, lock and noise canceling enhance usability when the device is in a backpack, purse or pocket for quick operation without looking at the display. Pricing and Availability The X-series Walkman® video MP3 player is available now for pre-sales on sonystyle.com. The device will come in black in two different storage capacities, the NWZ-X1051 with 16GB of internal storage and the NWZ- X1061 with 32GB, and cost $299 and $399 respectively. Both models can be found in Sony Style stores and select retailers nationwide mid-June. *Based on Sony’s survey (as of Apr. 2009) WALKMAN is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. YouTube is a trademark of Google, Inc.Slacker is a registered trademark of Slacker, Inc. iTunes is a trademark of Apple Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. Back to Top
GENIUS PUTS HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO IN THE PALM OF THE HAND WITH THEIR NEW HD DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA Weighing under 6-ozs and priced under $150, the Genius G-Shot HD520 offers 11-megapixel stills and HD video with H.264 compression format for exceptional quality output to today’s high-resolution flat panel TVs MIAMI (May 12, 2009) – Genius (www.geniusnetusa.com), a brand division of KYE Systems Corp., has announced a new compact, pocket-size high-definition digital video camera that excels at capturing both high-resolution stills (at 11-megapixels) and high-definition video (at 5-megapixel in MPEG-4/H.264 format) and is light enough (under 6-ozs) and portable enough to allow users to capture activities anytime, anywhere. This easy-to-use camcorder is ideal for Summer time outings, dads-n-grads, moms on-the-go or anyone looking to capture life’s moments in brilliant color and detail. Launched today, the G-Shot HD520 is both Windows (Vista/XP/2000) and Mac (OS10 or higher) compatible and designed with a ultra-bright 2.5” LTPS LCD screen that can rotate up to 270-degrees to allow users to shoot videos from any angle or position. The G-Shot HD520 comes equipped with Face Detection to track and detect faces accurately as well as Electronic Image Stabilizers (EIS) to detect and correct hand-shaking when shooting photos. The handheld camcorder has a built-in memory of 32MB and supports additional HCSD memory up to 8GB. The G-Shot easily outputs to today’s high-resolution flat-panel televisions using the included HDMI cable for theatre-like viewing or video and photos can be easily uploaded to a computer for digital editing, archiving or sharing with friends. Additionally the Z-Lighting technology enhances brightness in low-light environments, perfect for everything from Mother’s Day gatherings in dimly-lit restaurants to Summer sunsets on the beach. The G-Shot HD520 is also capable of shooting still photos (up to 11 megapixels), listening to music, reading e-books, playing voice recordings, and it can also be used as a portable media player..Priced at $149, the G-Shot HD520 weighs under 6-ozs and comes complete with a 7.1 mm lens, a 5X digital zoom, and a Li-ion rechargeable battery. Interested shoppers can go to New Egg.com, Amazon.com, Tiger Direct, Buy.com or other retailers and distributors listed at http://www.geniusnetusa.com/buy.php. More information on all of Genius’ headphones and products at www.geniusnetusa.com. ABOUT KYE SYSTEMS CORP. Genius was established in 1985. Genius product portfolio includes computer mice, keyboards, web and security cameras, speakers, gaming peripherals, remote controls, headphones, digital cameras, digital camcorders and digital photo frames. It also holds the U.S. patent for mouse scroll-wheel technology. In 2007 Genius announced a newly invented optical touch-controlled scroll-wheel for fast browsing of web pages and documents in eight directions. Genius expanded from computer peripherals into consumer electronic products that include mobile phone accessories, Bluetooth headsets, digital cameras, digital photo frames, iPod speakers and MP4 players. Back to Top BILL BROWN TO PRODUCE SCORE FOR WOLFENSTEIN | | Santa Monica, CA – May 12, 2009 – Activision Publishing (Nasdaq: ATVI) and id Software announced that Wolfenstein™ is set to feature an original score by award-winning composer, Bill Brown. Brown’s work has been featured in numerous feature films and television shows with credits, including: “Ali,” “Any Given Sunday,” “CSI: NY” and “Finding Forrester.” He previously also scored id’s hit Return to Castle Wolfenstein®.“Bill was the natural choice to create a soundtrack that emphasizes the fast-paced action of Wolfenstein while enhancing the overall mood during key moments and getting players fully immersed in the adventure,” says Kevin Cloud, executive producer at id Software. “Bill crafted the perfect soundtrack when we previously worked together on Return to Castle Wolfenstein and his experience and passion for the franchise will once again allow him to deliver an incredible score that draws the player deeper into the Wolfenstein universe.”Wolfenstein is scheduled for release later this year on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC and is not yet rated.About WolfensteinWolfenstein brings the Nazi’s dark obsession with the occult to life, by intertwining fast-paced, intense story-driven combat with a diverse sci-fi experience. As BJ Blazkowicz, a highly decorated member of the Office of Secret Actions (OSA), you are sent on a special mission into the heart of the Third Reich to investigate evidence that the SS hierarchy may possess a new and mysterious power.About id Softwareid – defined by Freud as the primal section of the human psyche; id Software, located in Mesquite, Texas, was founded in 1991. From inception to present day, id Software has relentlessly provided technical, design and artistic leadership as an independent game developer and technology provider. Transcending the games industry, id’s iconic brands such as Wolfenstein, DOOM, QUAKE and Enemy Territory have become staples of popular culture for generations of gamers. More information on id Software can be found at www.idsoftware.com.About Activision Publishing, Inc.Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products. Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and South Korea. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, www.activision.com.Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing’s expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as “outlook”, “will,” “could,” “would,” “might,” “remains,” “to be,” “plans,” “believes”, “may”, “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “estimate,” future,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “project,” “remain,” “scheduled,” “set to,” “subject to,” “upcoming” and similar expressions to help identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing’s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales of Activision Publishing’s titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing’s ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms (including next-generation hardware), declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing’s products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware and related software, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, litigation against Activision Publishing, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, vendors and third-party developers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates, integration of recent acquisitions and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities, Activision Publishing’s success in integrating the operations of Activision Publishing and Vivendi Games in a timely manner, or at all, and the combined company’s ability to realize the anticipated benefits and synergies of the transaction to the extent, or in the timeframe, anticipated. Other such factors include additional risk factors identified in Activision Blizzard’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. *** © 2009 Id Software, Inc. All rights reserved. Published and distributed by Activision Publishing, Inc. under license. Wolfenstein™ is a trademark and ID® is a registered trademark of Id Software, Inc. in the United States and some other countries. Activision is registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox Live, Windows and Games for Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. | | | | | | | | | |
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KONAMI REVEALS NEW MAGICIAN'S QUEST
MYSTERIOUS TIMES GAME DETAILS
Become the greatest magician of all time by solving mysteries and travelling through an epic adventure in the most immersive simulation game on Nintendo DS |
Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today revealed a trailer and details from the upcoming real-time adventure title Magician's Quest Mysterious Times for Nintendo DS™. Magician's Quest Mysterious Times is a unique combination of adventure and simulation RPG. Players are tasked with attending classes at Magic Academy while learning the mysteries of magic and the art of casting spells while building relationships with other students. As players attend classes, they'll be immersed in a living, breathing world where time progresses as it does in the real world, and each week, player's skills are put to the test in a new magical adventure. Using their spell casting abilities and unique interactions with other characters and their surroundings, players are confronted with puzzles and adventures that will challenge their skill.
Magician's Quest Mysterious Times contains over 50 mysterious events and introduces a variety of unique characters. These events and characters will challenge you as a magician both in your spell casting abilities and by figuring out the challenge through a series of correct responses and actions. Below are a few event examples and a few advanced tips on how players can solve them:
Sphinx: Journey to Magic Academy where you'll be met by the Sphinx. There he will ask you a question which you must answer correctly. Upon answering the question correctly or not, the Sphinx will move to a different location where you'll have to find him. Once you find him, you can cast a spell to make it rain which requires you have aquamarine in your possession. The Sphinx moves again. Find him and cast the rainbow spell which requires you have turquoise in your possession. The Sphinx moves again. Find him and cast the spell to make it rain flowers, which requires you to have the marguerite flower in your possession. This will complete the challenge.
Death: Head down to the Post Office where you'll need to speak with Thom, the post office worker to trigger the event. Once you do, Death will appear. Death is there to take Thom's soul and your job is to save it. Death will play a song called "That's Soul". You then need to go into town and buy the CD that has that song on it, return and give it to Death in exchange for Thom's soul. This will complete the challenge.
Martian: Mysterious Time begins and you'll be thrust into an environment where you'll be greeted by a Martian. He'll speak in his mystery language which you'll need to figure out to answer his questions. When he asks you his second question, answer "no". Once you do so you'll need to hand him the Flower of Skull which you must have in your possession. This will complete the challenge.
Dragon: Walk all the way to the back of the cave where you meet the dragon. He's stuck in the cave because he can't fly. After he speaks, go to the spell casting screen and select the "greeting" icon. Then he'll ask you to give him 3 kinds of medicine which require 3 different items: Freaky Frog Fat, Ancient Dragon Scale and Mandragona Root. You'll need to watch him for some time to make sure he's okay. After the last of the medicine the dragon will thank you which will complete the challenge.
Nessie: Nessie lives deep in the cave, after he speaks go to the spell casting screen and select the "greeting" icon. Nessie will retreat back into the lake and you'll have to leave the cave. Enter again and Nessie reappears, asking you if you've brought him an item. You'll need to give Nessie a fish 4 times, after which, Nessie will thank you. Next, Nessie will demand a song and you'll have to whistle until Nessie thanks you and says goodbye. This will complete the challenge.
Magician's Quest Mysterious Times for Nintendo DS™ ships to retail stores nationwide today!
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ROAD MICE™ WIRED MODELS NOW CRUISING THEINFORMATION SUPER HIGHWAY Four Door Media Announces General Availability of Latest Version of Car-Shaped Computer Mouse LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. (May 12, 2009)—Four Door Media, designer, manufacturer, and distributor of specialized computer based products and accessories, today announced that Road Mice™, an innovative car-shaped computer mouse officially licensed by today’s hottest auto manufacturers, is now taking orders for its latest product line expansion, the new wired car mouse models. True to the original wireless optical line of Road Mice, computer users who favor a wired computer mouse experience can now order the Chevrolet, Corvette, Dodge and Ford model of their dreams, each of which is carefully crafted to replicate the pristine lines, eye-catching details and bold colors of America’s most beloved automobiles. All wired Road Mice feature functioning headlights and tail lights, which can be left on for any duration of use as there are no batteries to replace. “We expanded our line of Road Mice based on the initial excitement and positive feedback in the marketplace for our wireless models,” says Dan Cwieka, CEO of Four Door Media. “We are thrilled to announce that the new wired versions of Road Mice are now available for order, providing an affordable must-have gadget for anyone who has ever dreamed of sitting behind the wheel of an iconic car, such as the Chevrolet Camaro or Corvette Z06.” Ranging in price from $32.95 to $36.95 each, Wired Road Mice models now available for order include: - Chevrolet® Camaro™ Concept
- Corvette® Z06™
- Chrysler HEMI® 300C
- Chrysler PT Cruiser
- Dodge Charger SRT8
- Ford Mustang
- Ford GT
All Road Mice models are PC and Mac compatible and can be used with both desktops and laptops. Each wired and wireless mouse features a unique (VIN) serial number and owners are invited to log onto the Road Mice Title and Registration page to register and activate their product warranty and receive their individual title, at no extra charge. Resellers and potential licensors should visit www.fourdoormedia.com or call 1-408-Car-Mice (408-227-6423) with questions or requests. All Road Mice designs are available at www.RoadMice.com, www.CarMouse.com, www.amazon.com and www.buy.com. About Four Door MediaFour Door Media is a specialized electronic products and entertainment company that creates, manufactures, markets and distributes, nationally and internationally, computer based products and accessories that entertain, promote and educate. The company was founded with a focus on marketing products that relate to the automotive industry and appeal to consumers across a wide range of market segments. Other products include USB flash drives and custom mouse pads. For information please visit www.fourdoormedia.com. General Motors Trademarks used under license to Four Door Media, Inc. Ford Mustang and Ford GT are registered trademarks owned and licensed by Ford Motor Company Dodge and HEMI® are trademarks of Chrysler LLC. Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Viper and their trade dress are used under license by Four Door Media. © Chrysler LLC 2009 Chrysler, Plymouth, HEMI® and related logos, vehicle model names, and trade dress are trademarks of Chrysler LLC and are used under license. © Chrysler LLC 2009 Back to Top
City of Heroes Goes Rogue with New Expansion PackNCsoft and Paragon Studios to Challenge Gamers to Walk the Line Between Good and Evil—or Cross it! SEATTLE, Washington – May 12, 2009 – NCsoft®, the world's premier publisher and developer of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), and Paragon Studios™, the developer of City of Heroes®, today announced the development of City of Heroes Going Rogue™, the first major expansion for the City of Heroes franchise since the launch of City of Villains® in 2005. As the name implies, Going Rogue will blur the line between heroes and villains in the first and longest-running super-powered comic book MMO game. In the Going Rogue expansion, hero and villain characters will become immersed in the new parallel universe known as Praetoria, which is governed by Tyrant™, the evil incarnation of the game’s main protagonist, Statesman™. As gamers search for Tyrant and the rest of his Praetorian guard, implacable foes and fierce resistance will arise to face them from all sides, causing heroes and villains alike to question their loyalties. City of Heroes Going Rogue will introduce a new alignment system that helps players explore the shades of gray that lie between good and evil. For the first time, hero characters can become villains and vice versa, enabling hero archetypes to cross over to the Rogue Isles™ and villain archetypes to experience Paragon City™. Clearly marked missions, in addition to behaviors and decisions made by the player, will move a hero’s or villain’s moral compass, which could eventually change the hero’s or villain’s alignment. Going Rogue will also introduce two primary new fictional characters representative of this alignment shift in the game’s lore: Maelstrom, a pistol-wielding hero gone rogue, and a Desdemona, a demon-summoning villain who has been redeemed. “City of Heroes has brought a fresh new perspective to the MMO stage with its foray into the super-powered hero comic book genre, and we are excited to present gamers with even more innovative content in Going Rogue,” said Brian Clayton, general manager and executive producer at Paragon Studios. “For years, players could choose between playing as a hero or a villain. Now we will present a third, malleable path where players can be affected by the results of their actions, enabling them to further develop, unveil new perspectives, and overcome new challenges.” NCsoft will share more details on Going Rogue in the coming months. The game is currently in development by NCsoft’s Paragon Studios, the City of Heroes development team that most recently launched the ground-breaking Mission Architect system. The launch of Mission Architect sets a significant milestone for City of Heroes as the first MMO to allow players to create user-generated content. City of Heroes has and continues to set new standards among its MMO peers and player community with its engaging and approachable comic book-inspired universe theme and consistent delivery of concepts that break the standard MMO mold. For more information about City of Heroes, go to http://www.cityofheroes.com. For more information about Paragon Studios, go to http://paragonstudios.com. For more news about NCsoft, go to http://us.ncsoft.com/en/news or http://us.ncsoft.com/en/news/press-releases. About NCsoft NCsoft, headquartered in Seoul, Korea, is the world's premier publisher and developer of massively multiplayer online games, including the critically acclaimed Lineage®, Guild Wars® and City of Heroes® franchises. NCsoft West is a division of NCsoft that holds operating responsibilities for North America, Europe, South America, and Australia/New Zealand. Read more information at http://us.ncsoft.com. About Paragon StudiosParagon Studios is a wholly owned development studio of NCsoft West and is dedicated to the growth of the City of Heroes franchise. Located in Mountain View, California, the team at Paragon Studios brings the world of comic books alive in a massively multiplayer 3D online universe. For more about Paragon Studios, visit http://paragonstudios.com. For more information about City of Heroes, go to http://www.cityofheroes.com. NCsoft, the interlocking NC logo, PlayNC, Lineage, Guild Wars, City of Heroes, City of Heroes Going Rogue, City of Villains, Paragon City, Rogue Isles, Statesman, Tyrant, and all associated logos and designs are trademarks or registered trademarks of NCsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Back to Top
MAJESCO ENTERTAINMENT AND INTERACTIVE GAME GROUP ANNOUNCE TWO NEW JILLIAN MICHAELS FITNESS VIDEO GAMES Sequel to Best-Selling 3rd Party Wii™ Fitness Title and All-New Portable Nintendo DS™ Game Due in Stores This Fall
EDISON, N.J., May 12, 2009 - This Fall, gamers will be able to work out with esteemed celebrity fitness trainer Jillian Michaels whether at home or on the go. Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, and executive producer Interactive Game Group (I2G), have announced that Jillian Michaels will be following up her nearly 600,000 unit-selling Wii™ fitness game with two new releases. Both Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Wii™ and Jillian Michaels' Pocket Trainer 2010 for Nintendo DS™ feature the celebrity fitness trainer, life coach, and star of the popular television series The Biggest Loser as she leads players through high-intensity, one-on-one workouts while providing direct feedback and motivation to yield real results.
"The success of Jillian's debut game underscores the strength of her brand and desire of the Wii audience to work out with a fitness icon," said Jesse Sutton, Chief Executive Officer, Majesco. "To keep up with today's on-the-go lifestyles, we're launching a portable game in conjunction with an enhanced Wii sequel so players can choose how best to integrate fitness into their daily routines."
"Jillian is always exploring ways to improve the customer's experience," added Giancarlo Chersich, Chief Executive Officer, Empowered Media LLC. "She wanted both Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010 and Jillian Michaels' Pocket Trainer 2010 to be the two best fitness video games on the market, from game responsiveness to player customization to improved workout routines and beyond."
Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010
In Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010, players enter a Hell Week-style boot camp packed with new features and energetic workout modes that fully utilize the motion capabilities of the Wii Remote™ and the Wii Balance Board™ accessory. Under Jillian Michaels' expert guidance, players engage in lively one-on-one workouts featuring all-new core exercises in Cardio Training, Strength Training, and Balance Training superset routines.
The game features many new modes, including "Fitness Resolutions" and "Exercise with Jillian." In "Fitness Resolutions", players plan their routines for the next six months by creating a training calendar, while "Exercise with Jillian" gives players one-on-one time with a 3D avatar of Jillian Michaels that demonstrates pre-made or custom routines. In addition, major motion tracking improvements enable more accurate and precise exercise movements ensuring proper tempo and technique. Players tailor their workouts to their specific abilities by adjusting the game's difficulty level, and ensure a safe session with warm up and cool down exercises. For even more variety, players will workout in exotic locales like beaches and jungles, or challenge family and friends in multiplayer competitions.
Jillian Michaels' Pocket Trainer 2010
Jillian Michaels makes her portable debut as she provides expert exercise advice to help players achieve their fitness goals anytime and anywhere through a personalized fitness program. Players adapt their workout experience to their individual abilities in two different modes: "Jillian's Training" and "My Training." In "Jillian's Training," players follow a pre-defined workout routine proposed by Jillian Michaels, while "My Training" allows players to customize their routines by specifying workout days and activities.
In the game, a 3D avatar of Jillian Michaels demonstrates exercises to ensure that players are maintaining proper form and pace. Players can also track their schedules, progress, and BMI through the innovative "My Diary" feature. With over a dozen real-world exercises and Jillian Michaels' tough love and supervision, Jillian Michaels' Pocket Trainer 2010 helps players develop good habits and provides beneficial advice on Diet, Health, and Wellness!
Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2010 for Wii™ is developed by Collision Studios, while Jillian Michaels' Pocket Trainer 2010 for Nintendo DS™ is developed by Mistic Software. The executive producer of both games is Interactive Game Group (I2G). Both games feature English and Spanish support and are expected to release this Fall. For additional information about Majesco's exciting line of products, please visit www.majescoentertainment.com.
About Majesco Entertainment Company
Majesco Entertainment Company is a provider of video games for the mass market. Building on 20 years of operating history, the company is focused on developing and publishing a wide range of casual and family oriented video games on leading console and portable systems. Product highlights include Cooking Mama™ and Cake Mania®2 for Nintendo DS™, and Cooking Mama World Kitchen and Jillian Michaels' Fitness Ultimatum 2009 for Wii™. The company's shares are traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol: COOL. Majesco is headquartered in Edison, NJ and has an international office in Bristol, UK. More information about Majesco can be found online at www.majescoentertainment.com.
About Empowered Media, LLC
Empowered Media, LLC operates the Jillian Michaels health and wellness brand. Best known as the strength trainer and life coach on NBC's hit series "The Biggest Loser," Jillian is a motivator to nearly 15 million U.S. viewers every week and can be seen on TV shows in more than 35 countries. She is a best selling author and her DVD's, website and exercise equipment are all top sellers. For more information please visit www.jillianmichaels.com.
About Interactive Game Group, LLC
Interactive Game Group (I2G) is a company producing and acquiring video games and other interactive entertainment properties, whether packaged media, online or wireless. Created by Frederic Chesnais, former Chief Executive Officer of Atari Interactive, Inc. with a decade-long experience in acquiring, financing and licensing intellectual property rights in the video game industry, I2G is developing and financing a portfolio of video game properties, joining forces with the best studios, publishers and distributors for each project on a worldwide scale.
Safe Harbor
Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period(s) or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "may," "will," "intend," "should," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate" or "continue" or the negatives thereof or other comparable terminology. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors. These factors include but are not limited to, the demand for our products; our ability to complete and release our products in a timely fashion; competitive factors in the businesses in which we compete; continued consumer acceptance of our products and the gaming platforms on which our products operate; fulfillment of orders preliminarily made by customers; adverse changes in the securities markets and the availability of and costs associated with sources of liquidity. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to release publicly the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.
Back to Top iPhoto '09: The Missing Manual--New from O'ReillyAnswers Found Here! Sebastopol, CA—iPhoto '09 makes it easier than ever to transfer photos from a digital camera, organize them, and publish, print, or share them. The latest version boasts loads of exciting new features—including automatic face-recognition, easier ways to get your photos online, and fully customizable travel maps—but there's still no printed manual. That is, until now.Fortunately, David Pogue, weekly personal-technology columnist for the New York Times, and J.D. Biersdorfer team up in a funny, authoritative new book that should have been in the box, iPhone '09: The Missing Manual (O'Reilly, $34.99). And according to the authors, there are many invaluable new features in iPhone '09, digital photographers of every skill level are sure to appreciate. "I take a lot of pictures when I travel, so I find myself using the Places feature in iPhoto '09 more than anything. It's great for seeing all the photos you've ever taken in a particular city, regardless of when you took them," notes co-author J.D. Biersdorfer, weekly computer Q&A column for the Circuits section of The New York Times. "Social networking, especially photo-sharing, is a huge part of people's lives these days and iPhoto's integration with Facebook and Flickr makes it much easier to share stuff right out of your iPhoto library. I used to export pictures from iPhoto and upload them through the Web or with the Flickr Uploadr, but now all I have to do is click a button or drag photos onto the Flickr icon in iPhoto '09 to share them with the world," adds J.D. "I was dubious of how well the Faces feature would work in recognizing my friends and family. At first, the people iPhoto '09 would suggest were all over the map, but the more I trained the program by rejecting the wrong face matches, the better it got. It's starting to get pretty precise on picking my friends and family out of photos now," says J.D. Here's some of the important stuff you'll learn about in iPhone '09: The Missing Manual: - Organizing Your Collection. This book's opening chapters are a guided tour through all the ways iPhoto lets you group your pictures-by events, in albums, or even based on who's in the picture and where it was taken.
- Editing Basics. Even the greatest photos sometimes need a little touching up. This book covers iPhoto's beefed-up editing suite, including its increasingly Photoshop-like adjustments palette.
- Finding an audience. iPhoto excels at getting your photos out to the people who really want to see them. Your choices include screen savers, Kodak prints, DVD slideshows (with music), iPhone videos, gift books, calendars, cards, and easy publishing to Flickr, Facebook, and MobileMe Web galleries.
So whether you're the next Ansel Adams or just a photo nut, iPhone '09: The Missing Manual lets you marry the stunning quality of digital photography with the power of your imagination. J.D. Biersdorfer is the author of iPod: The Missing Manual and The iPod Shuffle Fan Book, and is co-author of The Internet: The Missing Manual and the second edition of Google: The Missing Manual. She has been writing the weekly computer Q&A column for the Circuits section of The New York Times since 1998.David Pogue , Yale '85, is the weekly personal-technology columnist for the New York Times and an Emmy award-winning tech correspondent for CBS News. His funny tech videos appear weekly on CNBC. And with 3 million books in print, he is also one of the world's bestselling how- to authors. In 1999, he launched his own series of amusing, practical, and user-friendly computer books called Missing Manuals, which now includes 100 titles.Additional Resources:
For more information about the book, including table of contents, index, author bios, and cover graphic, see: http://www.oreilly.com/catalog/9780596801441 iPhoto '09: The Missing Manual
David Pogue, J.D. Biersdorfer
ISBN: 9780596801441, 384 pages,
Book Price: $34.99 USD, £26.99 GBP
Ebook Price: $27.99 USD
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O'Reilly Media spreads the knowledge of innovators through its books, online services, magazines, and conferences. Since 1978, O'Reilly Media has been a chronicler and catalyst of cutting-edge development, homing in on the technology trends that really matter and spurring their adoption by amplifying "faint signals" from the alpha geeks who are creating the future. An active participant in the technology community, the company has a long history of advocacy, meme-making, and evangelism.# # #O'Reilly is a registered trademark of O'Reilly Media, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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Back to Top Logitech Unveils Black Edition of Wireless Guitar Controller for PLAYSTATION 3
Wireless Guitar Controller for Guitar Hero to be Available Worldwide
FREMONT, Calif. – May 12, 2009 — Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI) today announced the Logitech® Wireless Guitar Controller for PLAYSTATION®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems. Featuring authentic materials – including a wood neck and body, a rosewood fingerboard and metal frets – the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller is for gamers who truly want to play like a rock star. Following the introduction of the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller, Premiere Edition (previously available only in select markets), the new black guitar controller is expected to be available worldwide later this month. The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller is licensed by Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) for the award-winning Guitar Hero® franchise. “Logitech’s new guitar controller delivers the same unparalleled Guitar Hero experience offered by our previous premiere edition to an even broader group of gamers and at a great value,” said Ruben Mookerjee, Logitech’s director of product marketing for gaming. “Everything about the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller is premium – from the authentic wood material and flawless black finish, to the noise-dampening design of the strum bar and buttons, to the authentic accents provided by the metal frets.” The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller offers a one-piece contoured wood body preferred by many of the world’s leading rock guitarists. For reduced button noise, Logitech uses rubber dome technology on the fret board controls, the same material used in its award-winning keyboards. The guitar controller also incorporates a touch-sensitive slider, located on the neck of the guitar controller so you can rack up the points. So you’ll be free to go where the music moves you, the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller lets you jam at a range of up to 30 feet from the console and offers hundreds of hours of battery life. The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller will be available in a pristine black finish complemented with a glossy black pick guard. Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller for PLAYSTATION®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems is expected to be available this month in the U.S. for a retail price of $199.99 (U.S.) and will be available in Europe in June. About Logitech Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals, driving innovation in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI). Back to Top LaCie Upgrades Network Storage Solutions, Including a Massive 10TB of Storage Capacity Today LaCie announced significant advancements in two recognized and award-winning network storage solutions – the LaCie 2big Network and the LaCie 5big Network. The product upgrades include improved performance, enhanced features, comprehensive backup support, and extreme capacity expansion – ultimately providing customers with an easier setup experience and a variety of ways to archive, access, and share large amounts of content.
The award-winning LaCie 5big Network takes advantage of a Gigabit Ethernet connection and features five hot-swappable drives that support seven RAID modes. Now, with the latest capacity advancements, the 5big Network includes a 10TB model, making it the first in its class to offer double-digit capacity.
Strengthening LaCie's support for Apple® applications, the 5big Network is now compatible with Time Machine® backup software; with just one click on the LaCie Administrator website, all Mac computers on a single LAN can access the 5big Network and perform a variety of backups. Additionally, the 5big Network provides improved multimedia server capabilities, allowing users to play media from the NAS solution through a UPnP-AV compatible device such as a PS3 or Xbox, directly to a television or directly to any DLNA multimedia device. The 5big Network is also compatible with the iTunes server, which provides iTunes users access the NAS device from the application interface.
"Networked storage has become a way of life for small businesses and a feature that's more commonly desired in the home," said Edin del Mar, LaCie's SOHO NAS Product Manager. "The evolution of these two products provides our customers with enhanced convenience and usability, demonstrating LaCie's commitment to optimizing form and functionality."
The 2big Network is a two-bay RAID device that provides up to 4TB of professional storage. Its upgrade includes features such as Windows Active Directory Support (ADS) and local backup. It also supports integration with MS Windows network domains, making it easy for IT Administrators to manage.
Expanding its backup capabilities, the LaCie 2big Network enables users to perform incremental and scheduled backups to external devices. It also ships with client licenses of Genie Backup Manager Pro for Windows and Intego Backup Manager Pro for Mac, a software suite that allows users to reliably and efficiently back up documents, emails, or other digital assets, or restore them in the case of data loss. Additionally, the 2big Network is fully compatible with Time Machine.
LaCie continues to evolve its full line of NAS solutions to provide optimal performance, industry-leading security and backup features, as well as unparalleled capacities – offering customers a customized solution suited for any home or small office.
Availability
The LaCie 2big and 5big Network will be available through the LaCie Online Store, LaCie Reseller+ or LaCie Storage Partner starting at the suggested retail price of $319.99 for the 2big Network and $799.99 for the 5big Network (excluding VAT). For more information, visit www.lacie.com.
About LaCie
Located in the USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, Europe, Singapore and Hong Kong, LaCie is the leading manufacturer of computer peripherals for Windows, Apple and Linux users. LaCie creates external storage solutions and color monitors that help professionals and everyday people easily manage their digital lives. LaCie has differentiated its products through original designs and leading-edge technology. Established in France in 1989, LaCie is listed on Euronext under FR0000054314 (LAC). For more information, visit www.lacie.com. Back to Top
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